Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

The poem opens with the speaker expressing a wish to be buried close to the Roman Road. This choice of burial location is not for solitude but rather for the passing pageantry that occurs along the road. The speaker hopes that the vibrant sounds of the trumpets and the excitement of the pageant will reach their final resting place, bringing life and energy even after death.

The speaker desires that the rumour of their burial location spread throughout their "House of Stone." This house becomes a symbol of the poet's eternal abode, a place that will be filled with tales of old. The mention of the "ringing reins of old" and "horsemen riding in the sun" creates an image of the past, evoking a sense of grandeur and adventure.

The poem continues to paint a vivid picture of the pageantry passing by. Princes, proud Crusaders, and Free Companions all make their appearances, riding row on row. The visual imagery of glittering horsemen in the sun suggests a dazzling spectacle and emphasizes the excitement and splendor of the Roman Road.

The poet then introduces slim white girls with burning hair, who dance with the wind. Their presence adds a touch of romance and enchantment to the scene. They are depicted as capturing a gleaming paladin in great ropes of red roses, further enhancing the imagery of beauty and allure.

The poem takes a turn as the speaker addresses the East and the West, referring to them as singing and dreaming. There is a sense of longing and longing for adventure as the poet imagines the splendid rides to a city that is described as the loveliest, yet one that will never be seen by any soul. This adds an air of mystery and unattainability to the poem, further heightening its sense of yearning and desire for a life filled with adventure.

In the final lines, the speaker asserts their desire not to be buried in a peaceful and serene green abode away from the hustle and bustle. Instead, they embrace the idea of riding long on the Roman Road, perpetually experiencing the thrill and excitement of the journey. The riding, symbolizing a life of adventure, remains sweet to the speaker even in death.

Through the poem's vibrant imagery, the longing for adventure, and the celebration of the Roman Road's rich history, "Roman Road" by Rachel Annand Taylor captures the spirit of seeking a dynamic and spirited existence. It embodies the poet's desire for a final resting place that echoes with the energy and excitement of life, keeping the spirit of adventure alive even after death.

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