Songs of Action is a rousing collection of narrative poems by Arthur Conan Doyle that celebrate deeds of heroism, patriotism, and adventure. Written mostly in the 1890s when the British Empire was at its height, these poems reflect Doyle's passion for history and soldierly valor. The collection includes pieces like "The Song of the Bow," which harkens back to medieval archers and the Battle of Agincourt, and "The Ballad of East and West" (inspired by Kipling) extolling mutual respect between noble enemies. Many poems are devoted to military exploits - from the cannon fire of Waterloo to colonial skirmishes - depicted in rhythmic, martial language that stirs the blood. Yet Doyle also includes introspective verses, such as gentle memorials to fallen comrades and inspirational exhortations to duty and honor. The titular "action" isn't only war: a few poems praise explorers and everyday heroes confronting danger with grit. Throughout, Doyle's style is straightforward, rhythmic, and vivid; he often writes in ballad form with rhyming couplets or quatrains that make the poems almost song-like (fittingly, some were later set to music). Songs of Action was well-received for capturing the Victorian spirit of courage and fortitude. Modern readers find in it a time capsule of imperial ethos - unabashedly celebrating bravery and self-sacrifice, sometimes with jingoistic overtones, but also with genuine emotional resonance for those who dare greatly. Doyle's verse may not be as famous as his prose, but in these stanzas his heart for adventure beats strong.
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ISBN-13
978-0-683-74013-4 (9780683740134)
Schweitzer Klassifikation
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859-1930) was a Scottish author, physician, and spiritualist best known for creating the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes. Born in Edinburgh, he studied medicine at the University of Edinburgh, where his storytelling talent began to emerge alongside his scientific education. Though initially practicing as a doctor, Doyle turned to writing to support himself, eventually achieving worldwide fame with the publication of A Study in Scarlet in 1887. Beyond detective fiction, he explored historical novels, science fiction, and supernatural themes, notably in the Professor Challenger series. A passionate advocate for justice, he was involved in several real-life legal investigations. In his later years, Doyle became deeply involved in spiritualism, dedicating much of his time and writings to life after death. His legacy endures as one of the most influential figures in literary history.
