Writing for the English Major - Essay Example

The Result of Reflecting on a Summit in Snaefell In 1661, Abraham Cowley wrote “Dis by way of Vision concerning theGovernment of Oliver Cromwell” on a summit in Snaefell Mountain as he was reflecting on the miseries that were brought about by the Civil War to the British Isles (Corlett). The latter part of it has been considered by many as a fine example of a rhetorical prose. Cowley even described where he was as he was writing the essay. He was in a place where he can see Scotland, Ireland and England.

The line “I understand now perfectly what kind of angel and protector you are; and though your style in verse be very much mended” was intended to be a compliment addressed to the British empire (Cowley and Johnson, 90). The author reflected that the families of the men who fought in the Civil War were not as unfortunate as one thinks. Though the family may have lost a father but in the process the nation won a hero. There isn’t a nobler act than be able to fight for a nation and its future.

During the Civil War blood were shed and lives were sacrificed for the country’s pride and glory. The compliment may be read at first as a compliment for the rulers though it was meant more for the soldiers for they were the ones who protected their land. Though the threat for one’s freedom will always be there, when a nation is protected by God, led truthfully by its leaders and fought by noble men, it will stand protected at all times. A minor setback will never put it down as it has good foundation and even if it faces the toughest of trials, the nation will stand proud and continue to prosper.

Works cited:Corlet, Liz, Snaefell Mountain, Cowley, Abraham and Samuel Johnson, The Poems of Abraham Cowley, Volume 3, Chiswick: C.Whittingham; 1822.Cowley, Abraham, Richard Hurd and Samuel Johnson, The works of Mr. A. Cowley: in prose and verse, Volume 3, London: John Sharpe in Piccadilly, 1859.