The Ruddy Bloke

 Introduction John Milton, a renowned poet and author of the epic Paradise Lost , penned a masterpiece that often remains overshadowed by his other works: On the Morning of Christ's Nativity . This remarkable poem captures the essence of the nativity story, blending poetic elegance with deep theological reflections. Let us delve into the verses of this celebrated piece, and embark on a journey of wonder, beauty, and spiritual contemplation.  Summary On the Morning of Christ's Nativity by John Milton describe the events and significance of Christ's birth in detail. The poem begins by announcing that it is the month and the joyful morning when the Son of Heaven's eternal King, born of a virgin mother, brought redemption to humanity. The sages had foretold this event, emphasizing Christ's role in releasing humanity from its sins and establishing eternal peace. The majestic and radiant form of Christ, often seen at heavenly councils, was set aside as he chose to be bor

 Introduction John Milton, a celebrated poet of the English Renaissance, is best known for his epic masterpiece " Paradise Lost ." However, his poetic brilliance extends far beyond that, encompassing a wide range of themes and styles. One such example is the lesser-known but equally remarkable poem At a Vacation Exercise . Let us look into the poem, examining its themes, language, and the unique glimpse it provides into Milton's early literary prowess. The Text: Hail native language, that by sinews weak Didst move my first endeavouring tongue to speak, And mad'st imperfect words with childish trips, Half unpronounc'd, slide through my infant lips, Driving dumb Silence from the portal door, Where he had mutely sate two years before: Here I salute thee and thy pardon ask, That now I use thee in my latter task: Small loss it is that thence can come unto thee, I know my tongue but little grace can do thee: Thou needst not be ambitious to be first, Believe me I have th

 Introduction John Milton, renowned for his epic work " Paradise Lost ," also delves into the realm of elegy and introspection in his lesser-known poem, On the Death of a Fair Infant . This elegiac masterpiece reflects on the sorrow of losing a young child while interweaving themes of innocence, mortality, and the eternal. Through vivid imagery and poignant verses, Milton captures the depth of grief and the glimmers of hope that arise from contemplating the transient nature of life. Before analysing the poem, let us understand a few things about Milton. John Milton (1608–1674) stands as one of the most revered figures in English literature, celebrated for his profound impact on poetry and political thought during the tumultuous times of the English Civil War and the Restoration. Best known for his epic poem " Paradise Lost ," Milton's literary prowess is characterized by his mastery of language, intricate use of blank verse, and his exploration of profound theol

 Introduction Andrew Marvell, a prominent 17th-century English poet, is known for his thought-provoking and metaphysical poetry. The Poem Horatian Ode upon Cromwell's Return from Ireland  has a political tone. Accordingly, Oliver Cromwell returned from Ireland in May 1650 to take part in the Scottish campaign. He entered Scotland on July 22, 1650. The poem is believed to be written between these dates. The poem was, in fact, cancelled from all known copies except one of the edition of 1681. Let us have a look at the lines. The Text: The forward youth that would appear Must now forsake his Muses dear, Nor in the shadows sing His numbers languishing. ’Tis time to leave the books in dust, And oil th’ unused armour’s rust, Removing from the wall The corslet of the hall. So restless Cromwell could not cease In the inglorious arts of peace, But thorough advent’rous war Urged his active star. And like the three-fork’d lightning, first Breaking the clouds where it was nurst, Did through hi

 Introduction Andrew Marvell, a prominent 17th-century English poet, is known for his thought-provoking and metaphysical poetry. One of his notable works, The Garden , is a captivating exploration of nature, solitude, and the power of the human imagination. Let us analyse the themes and ideas discussed in the poem. But before that, let us look into the lines of the poem. The Text: How vainly men themselves amaze To win the palm, the oak, or bays, And their uncessant labours see Crown’d from some single herb or tree, Whose short and narrow verged shade Does prudently their toils upbraid; While all flow’rs and all trees do close To weave the garlands of repose. Fair Quiet, have I found thee here, And Innocence, thy sister dear! Mistaken long, I sought you then In busy companies of men; Your sacred plants, if here below, Only among the plants will grow. Society is all but rude, To this delicious solitude. No white nor red was ever seen So am’rous as this lovely green. Fond lovers, cruel a