United by Steel Rails
By James McIntyre
When Indian tribes in the Northwest
Rebelled against the Eastern laws,
Canadian courage it did test,
All were united in the cause.
But how shall volunteers proceed
Such distance, several thousand miles,
Will they in their dark hour of need
Ask Uncle Sam with pleasant smiles
For to allow our volunteers
To pass o'er their north railroad,
Perhaps subject to doubts and fears,
Where British soldiers never trod.
But there went up a glad hurrah
When it was found that in our land,
Almost finished was railway,
And trains do wait for word command,
To bear away our volunteers
To those far North distant lands,
But dispelled were all their fears
When they rode over those steel bands,
Which bound young nation all in one,
Before detached and all apart,
Shoulder to shoulder now each one
Feels patriot feelings in his heart,
First time we truly realize
The value of this great railway,
Its benefits each now doth prize,
Highway to Japan and Australia.
The policy it has proved wise,
Which did build this great railway,
The vast Northwest to colonize,
And bear its products far away.
Canadian flags are now unfurled
In the ports of the Chinese,
Short route to Oriental world
Gives Canada her cheap fine teas.
Poem Analysis:
James McIntyre’s poem "United by Steel Rails" reflects on the significance of the railway in uniting Canada during a time of conflict and its broader implications for the nation’s development and identity. Through the lens of historical events and imagery associated with the railway, McIntyre explores themes of unity, patriotism, and progress.
Themes and Content
- Unity and Patriotism: The poem begins by referencing the rebellion of Indian tribes in the Northwest, presenting a challenge to Canadian unity. The phrase “Canadian courage it did test” emphasizes the need for a collective response. McIntyre celebrates how the railway served as a unifying force, bringing together volunteers from disparate regions to support a common cause. This notion of unity is central to the poem, highlighting how shared infrastructure can forge a national identity.
- The Railway as a Symbol of Progress: The railway represents more than just a means of transportation; it symbolizes progress, modernization, and the expansion of Canada’s horizons. McIntyre praises the railway for its role in connecting distant regions, noting that it is “a glad hurrah” when volunteers realize they can traverse the vast distances thanks to the railway. The imagery of “steel bands” evokes a sense of strength and resilience, suggesting that the railway holds the nation together.
- Historical Context: The poem references a specific historical moment when Canadian volunteers were called to aid in the Northwest. By situating the narrative within a historical framework, McIntyre gives readers insight into the challenges faced during this period and the pivotal role that the railway played in overcoming geographical obstacles. The mention of "Uncle Sam" adds a layer of complexity, hinting at the delicate relationship between Canada and the United States.
- Economic Implications: McIntyre also touches upon the economic benefits of the railway, as seen in lines discussing how it facilitates trade and colonization of the Northwest. The railway is portrayed as a “highway to Japan and Australia,” emphasizing its importance not just for national unity but also for global trade. The mention of Canadian flags in Chinese ports symbolizes Canada’s expanding presence in the international arena and its ability to access new markets.
Imagery and Symbolism
- Imagery of Distance and Connection: The poem vividly describes the vast distances between communities and the railway’s role in bridging these gaps. Phrases like “several thousand miles” convey the challenges faced before the railway’s completion, while the reference to “steel bands” symbolizes the connections that bind the nation together.
- The Railway as a Metaphor: The railway serves as a metaphor for national unity and progress. It embodies the collective effort of Canadians to overcome challenges and forge a strong national identity. The poem suggests that just as the railway connects physical locations, it also connects people and ideals.
- Flags and Identity: The imagery of “Canadian flags” being unfurled signifies a celebration of national pride and identity. It reinforces the idea that the railway not only facilitates movement but also fosters a sense of belonging and unity among Canadians.
Structure and Style
- Rhyme and Meter: McIntyre employs a consistent rhyme scheme and rhythmic flow, giving the poem a musical quality that enhances its celebratory tone. This structure aids in conveying a sense of progress and unity.
- Narrative Style: The poem unfolds as a narrative that recounts a significant historical event, drawing readers into the emotional landscape of the time. The conversational tone invites reflection on the importance of the railway in shaping Canadian identity.
- Repetition and Emphasis: McIntyre uses repetition effectively to emphasize key themes, particularly the railway’s unifying power. The phrase “to bear away our volunteers” underscores the importance of the railway in facilitating action and support.
"United by Steel Rails" by James McIntyre is a celebration of the railway as a symbol of unity, progress, and national identity in Canada. Through historical context, vivid imagery, and themes of patriotism and economic development, McIntyre effectively illustrates how the railway transformed the nation and brought its people together during times of crisis. The poem serves as a reminder of the powerful role infrastructure plays in shaping a country’s identity and fostering a sense of community among its citizens. As such, it reflects both a moment in Canadian history and a broader narrative about the potential of shared endeavors to unify a diverse nation.