Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"A Daniel Come to Judgment" is a poem by John Cowper Powys that explores the theme of justice and the human desire for truth and fairness. The poem was first published in Powys's collection of poems, Samphire, in 1916.

The poem consists of seven stanzas, each with four lines, following an ABAB rhyme scheme. This form creates a sense of balance and order, reflecting the poem's focus on the importance of justice and fairness in human society.

The content of the poem takes the form of a plea for justice, with the speaker addressing a "Daniel" figure who represents a wise and just judge. The poem suggests that justice is a fundamental human need, and that it is essential for society to function properly. The poem's message is that justice and fairness are not just moral imperatives, but are also essential to the functioning of human society.

The poem's use of metaphor is particularly noteworthy, with the image of "Daniel" reflecting the idea of justice as a wise and impartial judge. The poem also uses the metaphor of the "scale" to reflect the idea of justice as a balancing force that weighs the merits of each case.

Overall, "A Daniel Come to Judgment" is a powerful and insightful poem that explores the theme of justice and the human desire for truth and fairness. The poem's use of metaphor, form, and language creates a sense of depth and meaning that has resonated with readers for over a century. The poem's message of the importance of justice and fairness in human society has a universal appeal that has made it a lasting testament to the enduring power of poetry to explore the human experience.

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