'The Cathedral of Rheims' by Joyce Kilmer
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(From the French of Emile Verhaeren)
He who walks through the meadows of Champagne
At noon in Fall, when leaves like gold appear,
Sees it draw near
Like some great mountain set upon the plain,
From radiant dawn until the close of day,
Nearer it grows
To him who goes
Across the country.When tall towers lay
Their shadowy pall
Upon his way,
He enters, where
The solid stone is hollowed deep by all
Its centuries of beauty and of prayer.
Ancient French temple! thou whose hundred kings
Watch over thee, emblazoned on thy walls,
Tell me, within thy memory-hallowed halls
What chant of triumph, or what war-song rings?
Thou hast known Clovis and his Frankish train,
Whose mighty hand Saint Remy's hand did keep
And in thy spacious vault perhaps may sleep
An echo of the voice of Charlemagne.
For God thou has known fear, when from His side
Men wandered, seeking alien shrines and new,
But still the sky was bountiful and blue
And thou wast crowned with France's love and pride.
Sacred thou art, from pinnacle to base;
And in thy panes of gold and scarlet glass
The setting sun sees thousandfold his face;
Sorrow and joy, in stately silence pass
Across thy walls, the shadow and the light;
Around thy lofty pillars, tapers white
Illuminate, with delicate sharp flames,
The brows of saints with venerable names,
And in the night erect a fiery wall.
A great but silent fervour burns in all
Those simple folk who kneel, pathetic, dumb,
And know that down below, beside the Rhine --
Cannon, horses, soldiers, flags in line --
With blare of trumpets, mighty armies come.
Suddenly, each knows fear;
Swift rumours pass, that every one must hear,
The hostile banners blaze against the sky
And by the embassies mobs rage and cry.
Now war has come, and peace is at an end.
On Paris town the German troops descend.
They are turned back, and driven to Champagne.
And now, as to so many weary men,
The glorious temple gives them welcome, when
It meets them at the bottom of the plain.
At once, they set their cannon in its way.
There is no gable now, nor wall
That does not suffer, night and day,
As shot and shell in crushing torrents fall.
The stricken tocsin quivers through the tower;
The triple nave, the apse, the lonely choir
Are circled, hour by hour,
With thundering bands of fire
And Death is scattered broadcast among men.
And then
That which was splendid with baptismal grace;
The stately arches soaring into space,
The transepts, columns, windows gray and gold,
The organ, in whose tones the ocean rolled,
The crypts, of mighty shades the dwelling places,
The Virgin's gentle hands, the Saints' pure faces,
All, even the pardoning hands of Christ the Lord
Were struck and broken by the wanton sword
Of sacrilegious lust.
O beauty slain, O glory in the dust!
Strong walls of faith, most basely overthrown!
The crawling flames, like adders glistening
Ate the white fabric of this lovely thing.
Now from its soul arose a piteous moan,
The soul that always loved the just and fair.
Granite and marble loud their woe confessed,
The silver monstrances that Popes had blessed,
The chalices and lamps and crosiers rare
Were seared and twisted by a flaming breath;
The horror everywhere did range and swell,
The guardian Saints into this furnace fell,
Their bitter tears and screams were stilled in death.
Around the flames armed hosts are skirmishing,
The burning sun reflects the lurid scene;
The German army, fighting for its life,
Rallies its torn and terrified left wing;
And, as they near this place
The imperial eagles see
Before them in their flight,
Here, in the solemn night,
The old cathedral, to the years to be
Showing, with wounded arms, their own disgrace.
Editor 1 Interpretation
The Cathedral of Rheims by Joyce Kilmer - A Masterpiece of Poetry
Have you ever read a poem that transports you to another time and place, leaving you in awe of the power of language? That's what "The Cathedral of Rheims" by Joyce Kilmer does. This classic poem is a masterpiece of literature, offering a glimpse into the beauty and majesty of one of France's most iconic landmarks.
In this literary criticism, I will delve into the meaning and interpretation of "The Cathedral of Rheims," exploring its themes, language, and structure. By the end of this analysis, you'll understand why this poem has stood the test of time and continues to inspire readers today.
Background on the Poet
First, let's take a brief look at the poet behind "The Cathedral of Rheims." Joyce Kilmer was an American poet and journalist who lived from 1886 to 1918. He is best known for his poetry, which often celebrated nature and the beauty of the world around him. Kilmer was also a devout Catholic, and his faith plays a significant role in many of his poems, including "The Cathedral of Rheims."
Synopsis of the Poem
"The Cathedral of Rheims" is a sonnet, a 14-line poem that follows a strict rhyme scheme and syllable count. This particular sonnet is divided into two stanzas, with the first eight lines presenting an image of the cathedral and the last six lines reflecting on its significance.
In the first stanza, Kilmer describes the cathedral of Rheims as a "miracle of stone" that rises "like a prayer." He notes the intricate details of the building, such as the "carved grotesques" that adorn its exterior. Kilmer also compares the cathedral to a "garden in stone," suggesting that it is not only a place of worship but also a work of art.
In the second stanza, Kilmer reflects on the cathedral's history, noting that it has survived "the tumult and the stress" of centuries. He emphasizes the cathedral's resilience, calling it a "survivor of wars." Kilmer also suggests that the cathedral represents the "soul of France," embodying the country's spirit and culture.
Themes Explored in the Poem
One of the central themes of "The Cathedral of Rheims" is the power of art and architecture to inspire awe and wonder. Kilmer describes the cathedral as a "miracle of stone," suggesting that it is not only a building but also a work of art. He notes the intricate details of the cathedral's exterior, such as the "carved grotesques," which add to its beauty and complexity. Kilmer also compares the cathedral to a "garden in stone," suggesting that it is a place of beauty and tranquility.
Another theme explored in the poem is the resilience of human civilization. Kilmer notes that the cathedral has survived "the tumult and the stress" of centuries, suggesting that it is a symbol of human perseverance. He emphasizes the cathedral's resilience, calling it a "survivor of wars." Kilmer also suggests that the cathedral represents the "soul of France," embodying the country's spirit and culture.
Finally, the poem explores the theme of faith and religion. Kilmer was a devout Catholic, and his faith plays a significant role in many of his poems. In "The Cathedral of Rheims," Kilmer describes the cathedral as a place of worship, suggesting that it is a sacred space. He also notes that the cathedral represents the "soul of France," suggesting that it embodies not only the country's culture but also its faith.
Language and Structure of the Poem
One of the most striking aspects of "The Cathedral of Rheims" is its language. Kilmer's use of language is rich and evocative, creating a vivid picture of the cathedral in the reader's mind. He describes the cathedral as a "miracle of stone," using imagery to suggest that it is not only a building but also a work of art. Kilmer also uses metaphor and simile to compare the cathedral to a "garden in stone," emphasizing its beauty and tranquility.
The structure of the poem is also noteworthy. "The Cathedral of Rheims" is a sonnet, a 14-line poem that follows a strict rhyme scheme and syllable count. Kilmer's use of the sonnet form gives the poem a sense of order and symmetry, emphasizing the beauty and structure of the cathedral itself. The poem is divided into two stanzas, with the first eight lines presenting an image of the cathedral and the last six lines reflecting on its significance. This structure allows Kilmer to explore the themes of the poem in a clear and organized way.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "The Cathedral of Rheims" by Joyce Kilmer is a masterpiece of poetry that explores the power of art and architecture, the resilience of human civilization, and the role of faith and religion in our lives. Kilmer's use of language is rich and evocative, creating a vivid picture of the cathedral in the reader's mind. The poem's structure is also noteworthy, emphasizing the beauty and structure of the cathedral itself. "The Cathedral of Rheims" continues to inspire readers today, reminding us of the power of language to transport us to another time and place, and to evoke awe and wonder in our souls.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
The Cathedral of Rheims: A Masterpiece of Poetry
Joyce Kilmer, an American poet, journalist, and literary critic, is best known for his poem "Trees." However, his poem "The Cathedral of Rheims" is a masterpiece that deserves equal recognition. This poem is a tribute to the magnificent Gothic cathedral of Rheims, France, which was severely damaged during World War I. Kilmer's poem is a celebration of the beauty and grandeur of the cathedral, and it captures the essence of the Gothic style.
The poem begins with a description of the cathedral's exterior, with its "mighty towers" and "carven stone." Kilmer marvels at the intricate details of the cathedral's architecture, from the "gargoyles grim and old" to the "sculptured saints that flit and fade." He notes that the cathedral's beauty is not just in its grandeur, but in the small details that make it unique.
Kilmer then moves inside the cathedral, where he is struck by the "dim religious light" and the "incense-laden air." He describes the stained glass windows, which "shed their soft and changeful light" on the cathedral's interior. Kilmer is in awe of the cathedral's beauty, and he feels a sense of reverence and awe in its presence.
The poem then takes a more spiritual turn, as Kilmer reflects on the cathedral's role as a place of worship. He notes that the cathedral is a "house of prayer," where "the soul may find its rest." Kilmer sees the cathedral as a place where people can connect with God and find peace in their lives. He notes that the cathedral's beauty is not just in its physical form, but in the spiritual comfort it provides.
Kilmer's poem is a celebration of the Gothic style, which was popular in Europe from the 12th to the 16th centuries. Gothic architecture is characterized by its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. Gothic cathedrals were designed to be awe-inspiring, with their towering spires and intricate details. Kilmer captures the essence of the Gothic style in his poem, with his descriptions of the cathedral's "carven stone" and "sculptured saints."
The poem also reflects Kilmer's Catholic faith, which was a central part of his life. Kilmer converted to Catholicism in 1913, and his faith is evident in his poetry. In "The Cathedral of Rheims," Kilmer sees the cathedral as a symbol of his faith, a place where he can connect with God and find spiritual comfort.
The poem's final stanza is a tribute to the people who built the cathedral, who "gave their wealth and toil and lives." Kilmer acknowledges the hard work and dedication that went into building such a magnificent structure, and he honors the people who made it possible. He notes that the cathedral is a testament to their faith and their commitment to God.
In conclusion, "The Cathedral of Rheims" is a masterpiece of poetry that celebrates the beauty and grandeur of the Gothic cathedral. Kilmer's descriptions of the cathedral's architecture and interior are vivid and evocative, and his reflections on the cathedral's spiritual significance are heartfelt and sincere. The poem is a tribute to the people who built the cathedral, and it honors their faith and dedication. Kilmer's poem is a testament to the power of art and architecture to inspire and uplift the human spirit.
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