History & Politics

Festivals have I seen that were not names

by William Wordsworth 1770–1850

From Poems, in Two Volumes (1807)

History & Politics

Festivals have I seen that were not names:
This is young Buonaparte's natal day;
And his is henceforth an established sway,
Consul for life. With worship France proclaims
Her approbation, and with pomps and games.
Heaven grant that other Cities may be gay!
Calais is not: and I have bent my way
To the Sea-coast, noting that each man frames
His business as he likes. Another time
That was, when I was here long years ago:
The senselessness of joy was then sublime!
Happy is he, who, caring not for Pope,
Consul, or King, can sound himself to know
The destiny of Man, and live in hope.

MLA

Wordsworth, William. “Festivals have I seen that were not names.” Poetry Codex, poetrycodex.com/poem/wordsworth/67/.

Chicago

Wordsworth, William. “Festivals have I seen that were not names.” Poetry Codex. https://poetrycodex.com/poem/wordsworth/67/.

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