Shadows Before

 "Like clouds o'er the South are the nations who reign 
On fair islands that we would command; 
But clouds that are darker and denser than these 
Have sailed from an Isle in the Northern Seas 
And rest on our Southern Land. 

Low in dust is our Goddess of Liberty hurled 
At our feet, and the time is at hand, 
When we, the proud sons of the southern world, 
Beneath a proud banner of freedom unfurled 
And true to each other shall stand. 

If e'er in the ranks of the Right we advance; 
Though our enemies come like a flood, 
We'll meet them like lions, aroused from our trance, 
And show that a streak of the Olden Romance 
Still runs in our commonplace blood.

Form: Quintain (English) Comments

Comments About This Poem

Share your interpretation, favorite passage, or thoughts about this famous poem. Please provide an in-depth and meaningful comment.

  • What do you think the poet was trying to say?
  • Which line had the biggest impact on you?
  • How does this poem relate to modern life?
  • What literary devices did you notice?
No comments have been posted yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace