Stratford
By James McIntyre
Our Canadian county Perth,
Commemorates great bard of earth,
Stratford and Avon both are here,
And they enshrine the name Shakespeare.
For here in Stratford every ward
Is named from dramas of great bard,
Here you may roam o'er Romeo,
Or glance on Juliet bestow.
And it is a railway centre,
Many a train doth here enter,
And railroad shops do men employ,
And gives them work and wealth and joy.
Poem Analysis:
James McIntyre's poem "Stratford" is a celebratory tribute to the Canadian town of Stratford, Ontario, drawing parallels between its namesake, the famous English playwright William Shakespeare, and the cultural landmarks of the Canadian locale. Through its descriptive language and admiration for the town's connection to Shakespeare, the poem captures a sense of pride and appreciation for the community and its cultural heritage. Let's explore the themes, imagery, and underlying messages conveyed in McIntyre's verses.
Commemoration of William Shakespeare
"Stratford" begins with a nod to the Canadian county of Perth, which commemorates the renowned English playwright William Shakespeare. By highlighting the presence of both Stratford and Avon in the region, McIntyre emphasizes the enduring legacy of Shakespeare and the cultural significance of his works. The mention of Shakespeare's name being enshrined in the town evokes a sense of reverence for the playwright's contributions to literature and theater.
Cultural Landmarks and Allusions
Central to McIntyre's poem is the depiction of Stratford, Ontario, as a place rich in cultural landmarks and allusions to Shakespeare's plays. McIntyre describes how each ward in the town is named after dramas by the bard, inviting readers to imagine roaming through streets evocative of characters and scenes from Shakespeare's works. The mention of Romeo and Juliet adds a romantic and nostalgic touch, further emphasizing the town's connection to the world of theater and literature.
Economic Vitality and Community
Beyond its cultural significance, McIntyre highlights the economic vitality of Stratford as a railway center. The mention of trains entering the town and railroad shops employing local workers underscores the role of transportation and industry in sustaining the community and providing livelihoods for its residents. McIntyre's portrayal of Stratford as a place of work, wealth, and joy reflects a sense of pride in the town's economic prosperity and the resilience of its people.
"Stratford" by James McIntyre is a lyrical celebration of the Canadian town's cultural heritage and economic vitality, with nods to its namesake, William Shakespeare. Through its descriptive language and evocative imagery, the poem captures the essence of pride and appreciation for Stratford's connection to the renowned playwright and its role as a thriving community. McIntyre's verses serve as a testament to the enduring influence of Shakespeare's works and the enduring legacy of cultural landmarks in shaping the identity of towns like Stratford, Ontario. Ultimately, "Stratford" invites readers to appreciate the richness of cultural heritage and the vibrant spirit of communities that honor their historical and literary legacies.