On Hearing the Princess Royal [1] Sing
By Victor Hugo
In thine abode so high
Where yet one scarce can breathe,
Dear child, most tenderly
A soft song thou dost wreathe.
Thou singest, little girl —
Thy sire, the King is he:
Around thee glories whirl,
But all things sigh in thee.
Thy thought may seek not wings
Of speech; dear love's forbidden;
Thy smiles, those heavenly things,
Being faintly born, are chidden.
Thou feel'st, poor little Bride,
A hand unknown and chill
Clasp thine from out the wide
Deep shade so deathly still.
Thy sad heart, wingless, weak,
Is sunk in this black shade
So deep, thy small hands seek,
Vainly, the pulse God made.
Thou art yet but highness, thou
That shaft be majesty:
Though still on thy fair brow
Some faint dawn-flush may be,
Child, unto armies dear,
Even now we mark heaven's light
Dimmed with the fume and fear
And glory of battle-might.
Thy godfather is he,
Earth's Pope, — he hails thee, child!
Passing, armed men you see
Like unarmed women, mild.
As saint all worship thee;
Thyself even hast the strong
Thrill of divinity
Mingled with thy small song.
Each grand old warrior
Guards thee, submissive, proud;
Mute thunders at thy door
Sleep, that shall wake most loud.
Around thee foams the wild
Bright sea, the lot of kings.
Happier wert thou, my child,
I' the woods a bird that sings!
Footnote:
[1] Marie, daughter of King Louis Philippe, afterwards Princess of Würtemburg.
1881
Poem Analysis:
Victor Hugo's poem, "On Hearing the Princess Royal Sing," offers a glimpse into the life of a young royal figure, likely Princess Victoria, who would become Queen Victoria of England. The poem combines elements of innocence, royalty, and the contrast between the sheltered life of the princess and the turbulent world around her.
- The Princess Royal's Abode: The poem opens with the image of the princess in her elevated abode, a place where breathing can be difficult due to the rarified air of royalty. This initial description sets the tone for the poem, contrasting the princess's privileged life with the challenges she faces.
- The Princess's Song: Despite her sheltered life, the princess engages in a tender and soft song, which the poem suggests is a genuine expression of her emotions. This act humanizes her and reveals her as a child first and foremost, despite her royal status. The princess's song serves as a metaphor for her limited freedom of expression and the restrictions placed upon her.
- The Burden of Royalty: The poem delves into the paradox of royalty — a life of privilege but also one fraught with constraints and responsibilities. The princess, though part of a grand royal lineage, is described as feeling constrained, and the poem suggests that her life is far from carefree. The "glories" that surround her are juxtaposed with a sense of melancholy and longing.
- The Loss of Innocence: As the poem progresses, it touches on themes of innocence and the loss of it. The princess's smile, symbolic of her innocence, is described as faint and chastised. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the pressures of her royal role, which may force her to hide her true emotions and natural expressions.
- The Glimpse of Majesty: Despite her young age, the poem alludes to the princess's destiny. She is addressed as "Thyself," suggesting her future as a queen. Her regal status is evident in her godfather, who is "Earth's Pope," likely a reference to a significant religious figure or authority. The poem hints at the grandeur and responsibilities that await her.
- Protection and Thunders: The poem describes the presence of warriors who guard the princess. They are submissive yet proud, highlighting their loyalty and the need for her protection. The reference to "mute thunders at thy door" suggests both a sense of impending danger and the awe-inspiring authority she wields.
- Innocence Amidst Majesty: Despite the grandeur surrounding her, the princess is portrayed as retaining her childlike innocence. Her small song, the thrill of divinity, and her contrasting position as a monarch-to-be create a poignant juxtaposition between her innocence and the world of royalty and politics that awaits her.
"On Hearing the Princess Royal Sing" by Victor Hugo is a reflection on the complex life of a royal child, caught between the innocence of youth and the weight of future majesty. Through vivid imagery and contrasts, the poem delves into the princess's emotions, the challenges she faces, and the expectations placed upon her as she journeys from childhood to the throne. It serves as a reminder that even those destined for greatness bear the vulnerabilities of innocence and the human experience.