Summary

Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s ‘A Curse for a Nation‘ delves into societal sins, moral duty, and the repercussions of
ignoring injustice.

The poem is structured as a dialogue between the speaker and an angelic voice urging her to write a curse for a nation.
Initially hesitant, the speaker argues against cursing her own nation, expressing gratitude and love for her homeland
despite its flaws. However, she eventually concedes and writes the curse as instructed.

The curse addresses various injustices committed by the nation, including oppression, hypocrisy, and betrayal of ideals.
It condemns the nation for its mistreatment of others, its exploitation of the weak, and its silence in the face of injustice.
The curse highlights the discrepancy between the nation’s professed values of freedom and honor and its actions of
subjugation and violence.

Throughout the poem, the speaker grapples with the moral dilemma of cursing her own nation, reflecting on the role of
women, the power of empathy, and the weight of collective guilt. Despite her reservations, she ultimately acknowledges
the necessity of speaking out against wrongdoing and holding the nation accountable for its actions.

In the end, the curse serves as a warning, urging the nation to confront its sins and change its ways before it faces the
consequences of its actions. It emphasizes the importance of taking a stand against injustice and refusing to be complicit
in wrongdoing, even when it may be easier to remain silent.

The Poem Analysis Take

Expert Insights by William Delaney

M.A. in Literature and B.A. in English

The seemingly straightforward critique in 'A Curse For A Nation' belies a deeper complexity. While Browning's
condemnation of societal injustices is evident, her portrayal of moral decay may also serve as a reflection of individual
introspection. Perhaps the curse is not solely directed outward, but also inward, challenging readers to confront their
own complicity and responsibility in perpetuating systemic wrongs.

Structure and Form

‘A Curse for a Nation’ is structured in a deliberate and varied manner, with the use of different stanza lengths and
rhyming schemes contributing to its overall impact. The poem consists of twenty-three stanzas, each with its own
unique structure, creating a sense of rhythm and progression as the poem unfolds.
The first thirteen stanzas are quatrains, consisting of four lines each. These quatrains adhere to a
consistent AABB rhyming scheme, with the first and second lines rhyming with each other, as do the third and fourth
lines. This traditional rhyming pattern provides a sense of stability and coherence to the early part of the poem.

Following the quatrains, the poem transitions into three sestets, which are six-line stanzas. These sestets deviate from
the AABB pattern and instead employ an AABCCB rhyming scheme. This change in rhyming scheme adds variety and
complexity to the poem’s structure, signaling a shift in tone or focus as the poem progresses.

Finally, the poem concludes with seven septets, which are seven-line stanzas. The septets introduce yet another
variation in the rhyming scheme, using an AABCCBD pattern. This departure from the previous patterns adds a sense of
culmination and resolution to the poem, as it builds towards its conclusion.

This varied structure and form of ‘A Curse for a Nation‘ serve to enhance the poem’s thematic complexity and emotional
resonance. The shifting stanza lengths and rhyming schemes mirror the poem’s exploration of societal injustices and
moral decay while also highlighting the urgency and intensity of the speaker’s message.

Themes

‘A Curse for a Nation’ addresses several interconnected themes, each reflecting on the complexities of morality, societal
responsibility, and the consequences of injustice.

Moral Responsibility and Consequences

One of the central themes of the poem is the idea of moral responsibility and the consequences of societal actions.
Barrett Browning highlights the notion that individuals and nations are accountable for their deeds. This is evident in
lines such as “Because ye have broken your own chain / With the strain / Of brave men climbing a Nation’s height,”
where the poem condemns the nation for its oppression and exploitation of others. The curse serves as a warning of the
repercussions that come with disregarding moral principles.

Hypocrisy and Betrayal of Ideals

The poem also critiques the hypocrisy of nations that claim to uphold noble ideals such as freedom and honor but fail to
live up to them in practice. For instance, the lines “Because yourselves are standing straight / In the state / Of Freedom’s
foremost acolyte” highlight the contrast between the nation’s professed values and its actions of oppression and
subjugation. This theme underscores the discrepancy between rhetoric and reality.

Silence and Complicity

Barrett Browning explores the theme of silence and complicity in the face of injustice. The poem suggests that remaining
silent in the face of wrongdoing is akin to being complicit in perpetuating oppression. This is evident in lines such as
“And, warm for your part, / Shall never dare — O shame! / To utter the thought into flame,” where the poem condemns
the nation for failing to speak out against injustice. The curse serves as a call to action, urging individuals to break their
silence and confront injustice.

Empathy and Compassion

Despite the condemnation present in the poem, there’s also an underlying theme of empathy and compassion. Barrett
Browning acknowledges the capacity for individuals to feel empathy and compassion towards others, even in the face of
wrongdoing. This is reflected in lines such as “For I, a woman, have only known / How the heart melts, and the tears run
down,” where the speaker emphasizes the power of empathy to move individuals to action. The curse serves as a
reminder of the importance of empathy in fostering a more just and compassionate society.

Literary devices

Elizabeth Barrett Browning employs a variety of literary devices in ‘A Curse for a Nation’ to effectively convey her
message and enhance the poem’s impact.

Imagery

Browning utilizes vivid imagery to paint a powerful picture of societal injustices. For instance, in the line “For little feet /
Of children bleeding along the street,” she creates a striking image of the suffering endured by innocent children due to
societal sins. This imagery serves to evoke strong emotions and emphasizes the urgency of addressing these injustices.

Metaphor

Throughout the poem, Browning uses metaphor to convey complex ideas and concepts. For example, in the line “From
the summits of love a curse is driven, / As lightning is from the tops of heaven,” she compares the curse to
lightning, emphasizing its sudden and powerful nature. This metaphorical language adds depth to the poem’s themes
and helps to illustrate the severity of the nation’s wrongdoing.

Personification

Browning employs personification to give human qualities to abstract concepts, intensifying their impact. In the line
“Because ye have broken your own chain / With the strain / Of brave men climbing a Nation’s height,” she personifies
the nation’s actions as breaking its own chain, symbolizing the betrayal of its own values. This personification
emphasizes the self-destructive nature of oppression and injustice.

Repetition

Browning utilizes repetition to emphasize key ideas and themes throughout the poem. For example, the repeated use of
the phrase “This is the curse. Write” serves as a refrain, driving home the severity of the curse being pronounced upon
the nation. This repetition creates a sense of urgency and reinforces the poem’s central message.
Parallelism

The poem also features parallelism, with Browning presenting contrasting ideas in parallel structures. For instance, in
the lines “Ye shall watch while kings conspire / Round the people’s smouldering fire,” she juxtaposes the actions of kings
with the plight of the people they oppress. This parallelism highlights the injustice of those in power and underscores
the suffering of the oppressed.

Alliteration

Browning employs alliteration to create rhythm and enhance the musicality of the poem. For example, in the line “When
wise men give you their praise,” the repetition of the “w” sound adds a lyrical quality to the verse. This alliteration
contributes to the overall flow of the poem and engages the reader’s auditory senses.

Elizabeth Barrett Browning masterfully utilizes literary devices to convey her message effectively and evoke a strong
emotional response from the reader. These devices enrich the poem’s themes and contribute to its enduring impact.
Analysis, Stanza by Stanza

In the opening stanza, Elizabeth Barrett Browning immediately establishes a sense of urgency and divine intervention as
the speaker recounts hearing an angelic voice instructing her to write a curse for a nation. The use of the first-person
perspective creates a direct connection between the speaker and the reader, drawing them into the narrative and
emphasizing the personal nature of the experience.

The command to “Write! Write a Nation’s curse for me” conveys a sense of solemn responsibility bestowed upon the
speaker, implying that she is being called upon to act as a vessel for divine judgment. This notion is further reinforced by
the authoritative tone of the angel’s directive, suggesting that the curse carries significant weight and consequences.

Furthermore, the mention of sending the curse “over the Western Sea” introduces a geographical element that extends
the reach of the curse beyond the confines of a specific nation, implying a universal applicability to the message being
conveyed. The use of the sea as a symbol of separation and distance adds a layer of symbolism to the poem, suggesting
that the curse will transcend physical boundaries and reach far and wide.

Additionally, the choice of the Western Sea as the destination for the curse may carry symbolic significance, hinting at
the idea of sending the curse towards the setting sun, where darkness and unknown dangers lie.

Stanza Two

I faltered, taking up the word:

‘Not so, my lord!
If curses must be, choose another
To send thy curse against my brother.

In this second stanza, the speaker reveals a moment of hesitation and reluctance upon being tasked with delivering the
curse. The use of the word “faltered” suggests a wavering resolve or uncertainty, indicating that the speaker is grappling
with the weight of the responsibility thrust upon them by the angelic voice.

This hesitation is further emphasized by the direct address to the angel as “my lord,” which conveys a sense of
deference and respect while also acknowledging the authority of the divine messenger. The speaker’s plea to “choose
another / To send thy curse against my brother” reflects a deep sense of familial loyalty and compassion, as they express
a desire to protect their own kin from the potential harm of the curse.

This stanza introduces the theme of moral dilemmas and ethical considerations as the speaker wrestles with the
implications of cursing their own nation. The juxtaposition of the divine command with the speaker’s personal ties to
their brother creates tension and conflict, highlighting the complexity of the situation. By questioning the necessity of
the curse and advocating for an alternative target, the speaker raises questions about the nature of justice and the role
of individual agency in the face of moral imperatives.
Stanza Three

‘For I am bound by gratitude,

By love and blood,
To brothers of mine across the sea,
Who stretch out kindly hands to me.’

In here, the speaker expresses a profound sense of connection and loyalty to their brothers across the sea. The use of
the word “bound” suggests a deep and unbreakable bond forged by gratitude, love, and familial ties. This bond
transcends physical distance and national boundaries, emphasizing the universality of human connections and the
importance of solidarity.

The mention of “kindly hands” reaching out underscores the theme of compassion and mutual support, highlighting the
positive aspects of international relations and cooperation. Through this declaration of allegiance to their brothers, the
speaker challenges the notion of cursing their own nation, advocating instead for unity and solidarity in the face of
adversity.

Besides, this stanza introduces the theme of personal ethics and individual agency as the speaker grapples with
conflicting loyalties and moral obligations. By acknowledging their sense of duty towards their brothers across the sea,
the speaker asserts their autonomy and asserts their right to determine their own course of action.

This assertion of agency is significant in the context of the poem’s exploration of societal responsibility and the
consequences of collective action. Ultimately, this stanza highlights the complexities of moral decision-making and
underscores the importance of empathy, compassion, and ethical integrity in navigating difficult choices.

Stanza Four

‘Therefore,’ the voice said, ‘shalt thou write

My curse to-night.
From the summits of love a curse is driven,
As lightning is from the tops of heaven.’

In the fourth stanza, the voice speaking to the speaker reinforces the imperative to write the curse. The use of the word
“Therefore” suggests a logical consequence or conclusion, indicating that despite the speaker’s initial hesitation, they
are ultimately compelled to fulfill the command.

The directive to write the curse “to-night” adds a sense of immediacy and urgency, underscoring the seriousness of the
situation. The comparison of the curse to lightning, “driven / As lightning is from the tops of heaven,” evokes a powerful
and unstoppable force, emphasizing the magnitude and impact of the curse being pronounced upon the nation. This
comparison also suggests a divine origin for the curse, reinforcing the idea of divine judgment and intervention in the
affairs of humanity.
The stanza underscores the theme of divine justice and the consequences of societal wrongdoing. The metaphor of the
curse being “driven / As lightning is from the tops of heaven” suggests that the curse is a manifestation of divine wrath,
unleashed upon the nation as punishment for its sins. This idea of divine retribution reflects a belief in moral
accountability and the notion that actions have consequences. By likening the curse to lightning, Browning emphasizes
the sudden and dramatic nature of the punishment, reinforcing the severity of the nation’s transgressions.

Stanza Five

‘Not so,’ I answered. ‘Evermore

My heart is sore
For my own land’s sins: for little feet
Of children bleeding along the street:

In the fifth stanza, the speaker responds to the directive to write the curse by expressing their sorrow and concern for
the sins of their own land. The rejection of the command with the phrase “Not so” indicates the speaker’s refusal to
comply with the angelic voice’s demand, asserting their own moral stance. The use of the phrase “Evermore / My heart
is sore” conveys a deep and enduring pain, suggesting that the speaker is profoundly affected by the injustices occurring
within their own nation.

This personal connection to the suffering of their fellow countrymen underscores the theme of empathy and
compassion, highlighting the speaker’s sensitivity to the plight of the oppressed. The mention of “little feet / Of children
bleeding along the street” evokes a powerful image of innocent victims of societal violence and neglect, further
emphasizing the speaker’s anguish and indignation.

This stanza explores the theme of moral responsibility and the need for individual accountability. The speaker’s
acknowledgment of their own land’s sins reflects a recognition of collective guilt and complicity in perpetuating
injustice. By focusing on the suffering of the most vulnerable members of society, such as children, the speaker
highlights the urgency of addressing societal injustices and working towards meaningful change. This emphasis on
personal ethics and moral integrity underscores the poem’s overarching message of the importance of standing up
against wrongdoing and advocating for justice.

Stanza Six

‘For parked-up honors that gainsay

The right of way:
For almsgiving through a door that is
Not open enough for two friends to kiss:

This sixth stanza sees the speaker continuing to enumerate the sins of their nation, focusing on instances where societal
norms and practices contradict ethical principles. The phrase “parked-up honors that gainsay / The right of way”
suggests a system of privilege and elitism that disregards the rights and needs of others.
This imagery evokes a sense of injustice and inequality, highlighting the speaker’s condemnation of social hierarchies
that perpetuate oppression and discrimination. Additionally, the mention of “almsgiving through a door that is / Not
open enough for two friends to kiss” underscores the hypocrisy of charitable acts that are tainted by exclusion and
discrimination. This imagery symbolizes the superficiality and insincerity of gestures of goodwill that fail to address
systemic injustices and inequalities.

The stanza explores the theme of moral decay and the perversion of noble ideals. The speaker’s critique of societal
practices that prioritize status and appearance over genuine compassion and equality reflects a broader indictment of
moral corruption and moral decay. By highlighting the incongruity between professed values and actual behavior, the
speaker challenges the nation to confront its own hypocrisy and strive for moral integrity. This emphasis on ethical
accountability underscores the poem’s overarching message of the importance of individual and collective responsibility
in fostering a more just and compassionate society.

Stanza Seven

‘For love of freedom which abates

Beyond the Straits:
For patriot virtue starved to vice on
Self-praise, self-interest, and suspicion:

Here, the speaker delves deeper into their critique of societal shortcomings, focusing on the erosion of noble values and
virtues. The phrase “For love of freedom which abates / Beyond the Straits” suggests a diminishing commitment to
liberty and justice, particularly in regions beyond geographical boundaries such as the “Straits.” This imagery conveys a
sense of disillusionment and disappointment with the state of affairs, as the ideals of freedom and patriotism are seen
to falter in the face of external pressures or internal corruption. Additionally, the mention of “patriot virtue starved to
vice on / Self-praise, self-interest, and suspicion” highlights the perversion of patriotic ideals into selfishness and
distrust. This imagery symbolizes the moral degradation that occurs when noble values are distorted by individual
ambition and greed.

This stanza underscores the theme of moral decay and societal decline as the speaker laments the loss of integrity and
virtue within their nation. The critique of patriotism tainted by self-interest and suspicion reflects a broader indictment
of societal values and priorities. By highlighting the corrosive effects of egoism and mistrust on the fabric of society, the
speaker challenges the nation to confront its own shortcomings and strive for moral renewal.

This emphasis on the importance of moral integrity and ethical accountability resonates throughout the poem,
underscoring the overarching message of the necessity for individuals and nations to uphold noble values and principles
in the face of adversity.
Stanza Eight

‘For an oligarchic parliament,

And bribes well-meant.
What curse to another land assign,
When heavy-souled for the sins of mine?’

The speaker continues to scrutinize the societal and political structures within their nation. The mention of “an oligarchic
parliament” suggests a system of governance dominated by a small, privileged elite, which undermines democratic
principles and perpetuates inequality. This critique of oligarchy reflects a broader indictment of oppressive power
structures that prioritize the interests of the few over the needs of the many.

Additionally, the reference to “bribes well-meant” highlights the insidious nature of corruption, as even seemingly
altruistic actions are tainted by self-interest and unethical behavior. This imagery underscores the pervasiveness of
moral decay within the nation’s political institutions and the erosion of public trust in the integrity of government.

The stanza raises questions about moral responsibility and collective guilt. The speaker’s acknowledgment of their own
nation’s sins and the admission of being “heavy-souled” with the weight of those transgressions suggests a recognition
of shared culpability.

By questioning the justification for cursing another land when their own nation is plagued by moral shortcomings, the
speaker confronts the complexity of moral judgment and the interconnectedness of global issues. This introspective
reflection underscores the poem’s overarching message of the importance of individual and collective accountability in
addressing societal injustices.

Stanza Nine

‘Therefore,’ the voice said, ‘shalt thou write

My curse to-night.
Because thou hast strength to see and hate
A foul thing done within thy gate.’

In this stanza, the speaker once again encounters the commanding voice urging them to write the curse. The repetition
of the directive to write the curse “to-night” reinforces the sense of urgency surrounding the task at hand, suggesting
that the consequences of inaction are severe. The phrase “Because thou hast strength to see and hate / A foul thing
done within thy gate” highlights the speaker’s capacity for moral discernment and righteous indignation. This
acknowledgment of the speaker’s strength and moral clarity underscores the importance of confronting injustice and
speaking out against wrongdoing, even when it is difficult or uncomfortable.

Furthermore, this stanza emphasizes the theme of individual agency and the power of personal conviction in effecting
change. The speaker’s ability to recognize and condemn injustice within their own community reflects a commitment to
moral integrity and ethical responsibility. By acknowledging their own role in confronting societal ills, the speaker asserts
their agency and autonomy in shaping the course of their nation’s destiny. This emphasis on individual action and
accountability resonates throughout the poem, underscoring the overarching message of the necessity for individuals to
stand up against injustice and advocate for justice.

Stanza Ten

‘Not so,’ I answered once again.

‘To curse, choose men.
For I, a woman, have only known
How the heart melts and the tears run down.’

In the tenth stanza, the speaker reaffirms their refusal to write the curse, asserting that the task should be entrusted to
men. This rejection of the directive with the phrase “Not so” underscores the speaker’s unwavering stance and
determination to adhere to their own principles and convictions. By insisting that the curse should be directed by men,
the speaker challenges traditional gender roles and expectations, highlighting the complexities of power dynamics and
societal norms. Additionally, the repetition of the refusal to curse emphasizes the speaker’s commitment to compassion
and empathy, suggesting that they are unwilling to inflict harm even upon those deemed deserving of punishment.

Furthermore, this stanza explores the theme of gender and empathy as the speaker reflects on their own experiences as
a woman. The assertion that “I, a woman, have only known / How the heart melts and the tears run down” suggests a
recognition of the unique capacity for empathy and compassion that women possess.

This acknowledgment of feminine qualities such as sensitivity and emotional depth underscores the speaker’s
commitment to promoting understanding and reconciliation, even in the face of injustice. By highlighting the
importance of empathy and compassion in confronting societal issues, the speaker challenges traditional notions of
power and authority, advocating for a more inclusive and compassionate approach to addressing social problems.

Stanza Eleven

‘Therefore,’ the voice said, ‘shalt thou write

My curse to-night.
Some women weep and curse, I say
(And no one marvels), night and day.

This eleventh stanza sees the commanding voice once again insisting that the speaker must write the curse. The
repetition of the directive “shalt thou write / My curse to-night” underscores the urgency and inevitability of the task at
hand. Despite the speaker’s previous reluctance and attempts to resist, the voice remains resolute in its demand.

The phrase “Some women weep and curse, I say (And no one marvels), night and day” highlights the pervasive nature of
suffering and injustice faced by women, as well as the societal expectation for women to bear their burdens silently. This
acknowledgment of women’s struggles and the lack of recognition for their pain adds a layer of complexity to the
poem’s exploration of gender dynamics and power structures.
Furthermore, this stanza sheds light on the theme of gender inequality and the silencing of women’s voices. The
speaker’s reference to women weeping and cursing “night and day” suggests a continuous and unending cycle of
suffering, underscoring the magnitude of the injustices faced by women. Despite their anguish and indignation, women’s
expressions of pain and protest often go unnoticed or ignored by society.

This reflection on the marginalization of women’s voices serves to highlight the importance of amplifying
marginalized perspectives and challenging societal norms that perpetuate inequality and oppression.

Stanza Twelve

‘And thou shalt take their part to-night,

Weep and write.
A curse from the depths of womanhood
Is very salt, and bitter, and good.’

In here, the speaker is instructed to take the part of the women who weep and curse, indicating a shift in perspective
and empathy towards the suffering of marginalized voices. The directive to “weep and write” underscores the
importance of emotional authenticity and personal investment in addressing societal injustices. By empathizing with the
struggles of women and amplifying their voices, the speaker acknowledges the power of empathy and solidarity in
effecting change.

Additionally, the phrase “A curse from the depths of womanhood / Is very salt, and bitter, and good” highlights the
potency of women’s voices and experiences in articulating grievances and demanding justice. This acknowledgment of
the unique perspective and strength of women underscores the importance of inclusivity and diversity in confronting
societal issues.

This stanza explores the theme of empathy and the transformative power of collective action. The speaker’s willingness
to “take their part” and embody the experiences of women reflects a commitment to empathy and solidarity, as well as
a recognition of the interconnectedness of human experiences. The description of a curse from the depths of
womanhood as “very salt, and bitter, and good” suggests that expressions of pain and anger can serve as catalysts for
positive change.

This acknowledgment of the cathartic and transformative potential of collective action underscores the poem’s
overarching message of the necessity for empathy, solidarity, and activism in confronting societal injustices. The stanza
deepens the poem’s exploration of gender dynamics and solidarity while also underscoring the importance of amplifying
marginalized voices in effecting social change.
Stanza Thirteen

So thus I wrote, and mourned indeed,

What all may read.
And thus, as was enjoined on me,
I send it over the Western Sea.

In the thirteenth stanza of Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s “A Curse for a Nation,” the speaker reflects on the act of writing
the curse and the weight of responsibility it carries. The phrase “So thus I wrote, and mourned indeed” conveys a sense
of solemnity and sorrow, indicating the emotional toll of confronting societal injustices.

The act of writing the curse becomes an expression of mourning for the state of the nation and the suffering endured by
its people. Additionally, the acknowledgment that “What all may read” suggests a deliberate intention to make the curse
accessible to a wide audience, emphasizing the speaker’s desire to draw attention to the issues at hand and provoke
meaningful dialogue. This recognition of the public nature of the curse underscores the poem’s message of
accountability and the importance of confronting societal injustices openly and honestly.

Furthermore, this stanza highlights the theme of moral responsibility and the consequences of action. The speaker’s
acknowledgment that they wrote the curse “as was enjoined on me” underscores the sense of duty and obligation they
feel to address the nation’s transgressions. By sending the curse “over the Western Sea,” the speaker extends the reach
of their message beyond national borders, emphasizing the universal significance of the issues being addressed.

This act of sending the curse becomes a symbolic gesture of solidarity with oppressed peoples everywhere, as well as a
call to action for collective accountability and social change. This stanza deepens the poem’s exploration of societal
injustices and moral responsibility while also reinforcing its overarching message of the necessity for empathy, solidarity,
and activism in confronting systemic oppression.

Stanza Fourteen

Because ye have broken your own chain

With the strain
Of brave men climbing a Nation’s height,
Yet thence bear down with brand and thong
On souls of others, — for this wrong
This is the curse. Write.

The speaker here delivers a scathing condemnation of the nation’s hypocrisy and oppression. The phrase “Because ye
have broken your own chain” suggests a betrayal of the nation’s ideals and values, as those in power have forsaken the
principles of freedom and justice. The imagery of “brave men climbing a Nation’s height” evokes a sense of struggle and
sacrifice, emphasizing the efforts of individuals to advance the nation’s progress. However, the subsequent assertion
that they “bear down with brand and thong / On souls of others” highlights the contradiction between the nation’s
professed ideals and its actions. This discrepancy between rhetoric and reality underscores the theme of hypocrisy and
moral decay within the nation’s leadership.

The stanza emphasizes the theme of justice and accountability. The declaration that “this is the curse” suggests that the
nation’s wrongdoing has brought about its own punishment. By highlighting the consequences of oppression and
injustice, the speaker underscores the importance of moral integrity and ethical responsibility in governance. The
directive to “Write” serves as a call to action, urging the speaker to document and condemn the nation’s transgressions.
This emphasis on accountability and transparency resonates throughout the poem, underscoring the overarching
message of the necessity for individuals and nations to confront their own shortcomings and strive for justice.

Stanza Fifteen

Because yourselves are standing straight

In the state
Of Freedom’s foremost acolyte,
Yet keep calm footing all the time
On writhing bond-slaves, — for this crime
This is the curse. Write.

In the fifteenth stanza of ‘A Curse for a Nation,’ the speaker continues to critique the nation’s hypocrisy, focusing on its
failure to uphold the principles of freedom and justice. The phrase “Because yourselves are standing straight / In the
state / Of Freedom’s foremost acolyte” underscores the nation’s self-proclaimed status as a champion of liberty and
equality.

However, the subsequent assertion that they “keep calm footing all the time / On writhing bond-slaves” exposes the
contradiction between the nation’s professed ideals and its actions. This juxtaposition highlights the hypocrisy of a
nation that claims to uphold freedom while simultaneously perpetuating oppression and exploitation. The imagery of
“writhing bond-slaves” evokes a visceral sense of suffering and injustice, emphasizing the human cost of the nation’s
hypocrisy.

This stanza emphasizes the theme of justice and accountability. The declaration that “this is the curse” suggests that the
nation’s wrongdoing has brought about its own punishment. By highlighting the consequences of oppression and
hypocrisy, the speaker underscores the importance of moral integrity and ethical responsibility in governance.

The directive to “Write” serves as a call to action, urging the speaker to document and condemn the nation’s
transgressions. This emphasis on accountability and transparency resonates throughout the poem, underscoring the
overarching message of the necessity for individuals and nations to confront their own shortcomings and strive for
justice.
Stanza Sixteen

Because ye prosper in God’s name,

With a claim
To honor in the old world’s sight,
Yet do the fiend’s work perfectly
In strangling martyrs, — for this lie
This is the curse. Write.

This sixteenth stanza displays the speaker denouncing the nation’s hypocrisy and moral corruption, particularly in its
religious practices. The phrase “Because ye prosper in God’s name” suggests that the nation claims to be blessed and
favored by divine providence. However, the subsequent assertion that they “do the fiend’s work perfectly / In strangling
martyrs” exposes the contradiction between their professed faith and their actions. This juxtaposition highlights the
hypocrisy of a nation that claims to act in accordance with religious principles while engaging in acts of violence and
oppression. The mention of “strangling martyrs” evokes a sense of martyrdom and sacrifice, emphasizing the brutality
and injustice faced by those who dare to challenge the status quo.

The stanza underscores the theme of justice and accountability. The declaration that “this is the curse” suggests that the
nation’s wrongdoing has brought about its own punishment. By highlighting the consequences of religious hypocrisy and
oppression, the speaker underscores the importance of moral integrity and ethical responsibility in governance. The
directive to “Write” serves as a call to action, urging the speaker to document and condemn the nation’s transgressions.
This emphasis on accountability and transparency resonates throughout the poem, underscoring the overarching
message of the necessity for individuals and nations to confront their own shortcomings and strive for justice.

Stanza Seventeen

Ye shall watch while kings conspire

Round the people’s smouldering fire,
And, warm for your part,
Shall never dare — O shame!
To utter the thought into flame
Which burns at your heart.
This is the curse. Write.

In the seventeenth stanza, the speaker issues a damning indictment of the nation’s complicity in the oppression of its
people by those in power. The imagery of “kings conspire / Round the people’s smouldering fire” evokes a sense of
collusion and betrayal, highlighting the connivance of rulers in suppressing the aspirations and grievances of the
populace. Despite being aware of the injustices being perpetrated, the nation remains passive and indifferent,
symbolized by their failure to “utter the thought into flame / Which burns at [their] heart.” This silence and inaction are
portrayed as shameful, as they allow tyranny and injustice to flourish unchecked.
This stanza further underscores the theme of moral cowardice and the consequences of complicity. The declaration that
“This is the curse” suggests that the nation’s failure to speak out against oppression and injustice has brought about its
own punishment. By highlighting the moral failings of the nation’s leaders and citizens alike, the speaker underscores
the importance of moral integrity and ethical responsibility in governance.

The directive to “Write” serves as a call to action, urging the speaker to document and condemn the nation’s
transgressions. This emphasis on accountability and transparency resonates throughout the poem, underscoring the
overarching message of the necessity for individuals and nations to confront their own shortcomings and strive for
justice.

Stanza Eighteen

Ye shall watch while nations strive

With the bloodhounds, die or survive,
Drop faint from their jaws,
Or throttle them backward to death;
And only under your breath
Shall favor the cause.
This is the curse. Write.

The eighteenth stanza shows the speaker continuing to condemn the nation’s complicity in the suffering of other
nations, particularly in conflicts and wars. The imagery of nations “strive / With the bloodhounds” portrays a grim
picture of violent conflict and struggle for survival. The mention of nations dropping faint from the jaws of bloodhounds
suggests the brutality and carnage of warfare, as well as the vulnerability of those caught in its midst. Despite witnessing
these atrocities, the nation remains passive and indifferent, symbolized by their failure to openly support the cause of
justice and peace. This inaction is portrayed as cowardly and morally bankrupt, as it allows violence and oppression to
persist unchecked.

The theme of moral cowardice and the consequences of indifference is underscored. The declaration that “This is the
curse” suggests that the nation’s failure to actively oppose injustice and violence has brought about its own punishment.
By highlighting the moral failings of the nation’s leaders and citizens alike, the speaker underscores the importance of
moral integrity and ethical responsibility in governance.

The directive to “Write” serves as a call to action, urging the speaker to document and condemn the nation’s
transgressions. This emphasis on accountability and transparency resonates throughout the poem, underscoring the
overarching message of the necessity for individuals and nations to confront their own shortcomings and strive for
justice.
Stanza Nineteen

Ye shall watch while strong men draw

The nets of feudal law
To strangle the weak;
And, counting the sin for a sin,
Your soul shall be sadder within
Than the word ye shall speak.
This is the curse. Write.

In the nineteenth stanza, the speaker condemns the nation’s complicity in perpetuating oppressive social structures and
systems of injustice. The imagery of “strong men draw / The nets of feudal law” evokes a sense of power imbalance and
exploitation, as the privileged few wield their influence to subjugate and oppress the weaker members of society.

The mention of “feudal law” suggests an archaic and unjust legal framework that serves to maintain the status quo and
entrench inequality. Despite witnessing these injustices, the nation remains passive and complicit, symbolized by their
failure to challenge the oppressive systems that govern their society. This complicity is portrayed as morally
reprehensible, as it allows the suffering and exploitation of the vulnerable to continue unabated.

The declaration that “This is the curse” suggests that the nation’s failure to speak out against injustice and oppression
has brought about its own punishment. By highlighting the moral failings of the nation’s leaders and citizens alike, the
speaker underscores the importance of moral integrity and ethical responsibility in governance.

The directive to “Write” serves as a call to action, urging the speaker to document and condemn the nation’s
transgressions. This emphasis on accountability and transparency resonates throughout the poem, underscoring the
overarching message of the necessity for individuals and nations to confront their own shortcomings and strive for
justice.

Stanza Twenty

When good men are praying erect

That Christ may avenge His elect
And deliver the earth,
The prayer in your ears, said low,
Shall sound like the tramp of a foe
That’s driving you forth.
This is the curse. Write.

In the twentieth stanza, the speaker continues to critique the nation’s moral decay and spiritual bankruptcy, particularly
in its religious practices. The mention of “good men” praying for divine intervention underscores the desperation and
disillusionment felt by those who seek justice and righteousness in the face of rampant injustice and oppression.
However, the subsequent assertion that the prayer “in your ears, said low, / Shall sound like the tramp of a foe / That’s
driving you forth” suggests that the nation’s leaders and citizens alike are deaf to the cries for justice and righteousness.
This indifference and apathy towards the suffering of others are portrayed as morally reprehensible, as it allows injustice
and oppression to persist unchecked.

The declaration that “This is the curse” suggests that the nation’s failure to heed the calls for justice and righteousness
has brought about its own punishment. By highlighting the moral failings of the nation’s leaders and citizens alike, the
speaker underscores the importance of spiritual integrity and ethical responsibility in governance.

The directive to “Write” serves as a call to action, urging the speaker to document and condemn the nation’s
transgressions. This emphasis on accountability and transparency resonates throughout the poem, underscoring the
overarching message of the necessity for individuals and nations to confront their own shortcomings and strive for
justice.

Stanza Twenty-One

When wise men give you their praise,

They shall praise in the heat of the phrase,
As if carried too far.
When ye boast your own charters kept true,
Ye shall blush; for the thing which ye do
Derides what ye are.
This is the curse. Write.

In the twenty-first stanza, the speaker critiques the nation’s tendency to seek validation and praise from wise individuals
while ignoring their own moral failings. The mention of “wise men” praising the nation suggests a desire for external
validation and approval, highlighting the nation’s insecurity and need for affirmation. However, the subsequent
assertion that the praise shall be given “in the heat of the phrase, / As if carried too far” suggests that the accolades
bestowed upon the nation are insincere and exaggerated. This discrepancy between the nation’s self-perception and the
reality of its actions underscores the theme of moral hypocrisy and self-delusion.

The declaration that “This is the curse” suggests that the nation’s obsession with external validation and self -
aggrandizement has brought about its own punishment. By highlighting the moral failings of the nation’s leaders and
citizens alike, the speaker underscores the importance of humility and self-awareness in governance. The mention of the
nation boasting about its “own charters kept true” serves as a reminder of the nation’s obligations to uphold justice and
righteousness.

The directive to “Write” serves as a call to action, urging the speaker to document and confront the nation’s moral
failings. This emphasis on accountability and transparency resonates throughout the poem, underscoring the
overarching message of the necessity for individuals and nations to confront their own shortcomings and strive for
justice.
Stanza Twenty-Two

When fools cast taunts at your gate,

Your scorn ye shall somewhat abate
As ye look o’er the wall;
For your conscience, tradition, and name
Explode with a deadlier blame
Than the worst of them all.
This is the curse. Write.

In here, the speaker admonishes the nation for its tendency to dismiss criticism and mockery from those deemed less
intelligent or respectable. The mention of “fools” casting taunts at the nation’s gate suggests that the criticisms come
from individuals considered inferior or unworthy of serious consideration. However, the subsequent assertion that the
nation’s scorn shall somewhat abate as they “look o’er the wall” suggests that they will come to recognize the validity of
the criticisms, albeit begrudgingly. This acknowledgment of the nation’s vulnerability to criticism and mockery
underscores the theme of moral accountability and humility.

This stanza also underscores the theme of moral culpability and the consequences of arrogance. The declaration that
“This is the curse” suggests that the nation’s tendency to dismiss criticism and mockery has brought about its own
punishment. By highlighting the moral failings of the nation’s leaders and citizens alike, the speaker underscores the
importance of humility and self-awareness in governance. The mention of the nation’s conscience, tradition, and name
exploding with a “deadlier blame” serves as a reminder of the weight of their moral failings.

The directive to “Write” serves as a call to action, urging the speaker to document and confront the nation’s moral
shortcomings. This emphasis on accountability and transparency resonates throughout the poem, underscoring the
overarching message of the necessity for individuals and nations to confront their own shortcomings and strive for
justice.

Stanza Twenty-Three
Go, wherever ill deeds shall be done,
Go, plant your flag in the sun
Beside the ill-doers!
And recoil from clenching the curse
Of God’s witnessing Universe
With a curse of yours.
This is the curse. Write.

In the final stanza of ‘A Curse for a Nation,’ the speaker issues a powerful call to action, urging individuals to confront
injustice and wrongdoing wherever it may occur. The directive to “Go, wherever ill deeds shall be done” emphasizes the
importance of actively opposing injustice and standing up for what is right. The imagery of “plant[ing] your flag in the
sun / Beside the ill-doers” suggests a bold and defiant stance against oppression and wrongdoing, symbolizing the need
to confront and challenge those who perpetrate harm. This call to action reflects the poem’s overarching message of the
necessity for individuals to take responsibility for addressing societal injustices and striving for positive change.

The theme of moral integrity and ethical responsibility is underscored in this stanza. The admonition to “recoil from
clenching the curse / Of God’s witnessing Universe / With a curse of yours” serves as a reminder of the importance of
maintaining moral integrity and refraining from responding to wrongdoing with further harm. Instead of perpetuating
cycles of violence and retribution, the speaker urges individuals to seek justice through peaceful means and to confront
wrongdoing with compassion and empathy. This emphasis on moral responsibility and ethical conduct resonates
throughout the poem, underscoring the speaker’s plea for individuals to confront their own shortcomings and strive for
justice.