The Plantsters Vision

Read 'The Plantsters Vision' by 'John Betjeman' and provide your summary and literary analysis in the comments section below.

The Plantsters Vision by John Betjeman

 Cut down that timber! Bells, too many and strong,
 Pouring their music through the branches bare,
 From moon-white church towers down the windy air
Have pealed the centuries out with Evensong.

Remove those cottages, a huddled throng!
 Too many babies have been born in there,
 Too many coffins, bumping down the stair,
Carried the old their garden paths along.

I have a Vision of the Future, chum,
 The workers' flats in fields of soya beans
 Tower up like silver pencils, score on score:
And Surging Millions hear the Challenge come
 From microphones in communal canteens
 "No Right! No Wrong! All's perfect, evermore!"

Form: Italian Sonnet 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