Metaphysical Poetry is a unique form of 17th-century poetry that explores deep ideas in creative ways. John Donne (1571-1631) is the pioneer...Continue
How did the crowd react to the speaker a year ago
How did the crowd react to the speaker a year ago, as described in the second stanza?
In Robert Browning’s (1812-89) poem “The Patriot” (1855), the speaker reflects on how the crowd’s reaction to him changed over time. A year ago, the people celebrated him like a hero. However, their loyalty was short-lived. It shows the unpredictability of public admiration.
Loud Celebrations and Joy: A year ago, the crowd welcomed the speaker with great excitement. They filled the air with the sound of bells. People gathered in large numbers, and their loud cries made the walls shake. The whole scene was full of energy and happiness. This shows how much they loved and admired the speaker at that time.
Eager to Grant His Wishes: The speaker mentions that the crowd would have done anything for him. Even if he asked for “sun from yonder skies,” they would have agreed. This shows how deeply they trusted and respected him. Their willingness to fulfill impossible requests highlights how much they valued him a year ago.
The second stanza shows how the crowd was once full of admiration and devotion to the speaker. Their love and loyalty seemed endless at the time. However, this joy and celebration would later turn into rejection and hatred.