Volume 2 — Calais, August 15, 1802
Reading edition
Composed August 15, 1802.—Published 1807A
One of the "Sonnets dedicated to Liberty"; re-named in 1845, "Poems dedicated to National Independence and Liberty."—Ed.
The Poem
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Festivals have I seen that were not names: This is young Buonaparte's natal day, And his is henceforth an established sway— Consul for life. With worship France proclaims Her approbation, and with pomps and games. Heaven grant that other Cities may be gay! Calais is not: and I have bent my way To the sea-coast, noting that each man frames His business as he likes. Far other show My youth here witnessed, in a prouder time; The senselessness of joy was then sublime! Happy is he, who, caring not for Pope, Consul, or King, can sound himself to know The destiny of Man, and live in hope. Contents 1802 Main Contents 1 2 5 10
Variant 1:
1807
... this ... 1803
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Variant 2:
1827
... Another time That was, when I was here twelve years ago. 1803
... long years ago: 1807
... Far different time That was, which here I witnessed, long ago; 1820
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Footnote A:
It had appeared in The Morning Post, February 26, 1803, under the initials W. L. D.—Ed.
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Contents 1802 Main Contents