Over the years, Happy Warriors has garnered massive popularity, particularly in the military due to its exploration of the idea of real strength and wisdom. Hugely different from most of Wordsworth’s other poems, the poem sheds light on the significance of duty and following one’s responsibilities. In addition, it shows us an ideal way to live. Without further ado, let’s dive into the true meaning of the Happy Warrior. Feel free to drop your thoughts in the comments below:
What’s Wordsworth’s question in the poem?
Wordsworth asks in the first lines, “Who is the happy Warrior? Who is he That every man in arms should wish to be?” In the following lines, Wordsworth himself answers his question. The happy Warrior is the ‘generous spirit’ who continues to stride forward in the face of pain and suffering. Then, he goes on to explore the virtues and characteristics of the Warrior.
What are the virtues of the happy Warrior?
He is a knowledge seeker who is capable of extracting lessons from simple events of life and from moments of despair. Challenges don’t frighten him. Instead, they make him stronger and a better-learned man.
The poet writes of his ability to obtain good from tough times, “Controls them and subdues, transmutes, bereaves Of their bad influence, and their good receives:”
The Warrior is willing to act, and doesn’t resort to evil even when it means saving the day.
Who is the Warrior’s best friend?
According to Wordsworth, the Warrior’s best friend is ‘reason’. It’s the primary law with which he functions. Wordsworth writes, “’Tis he whose law is reason; who depends Upon that law as on the best of friends;” The Warrior wants to know the reason for his state. He knows there must be a reason behind every move and motion. This great affinity with ‘reason’ has helped calm the Warrior in dire times.
What are the Warrior’s principles?
The Warrior is happy, honest, and graceful. He will quit the duty the day he realizes he can’t act honestly anymore. He is a lawkeeper who would go to any extent in its safety. No kind of appreciation holds any importance for him since he only seeks to improve himself. He doesn’t long for fame or dignity for he is aware the ultimate greatness can only be delivered by god. The Warrior believes in “Heaven’s applause”, and he’s getting closer to it bit by bit by performing good deeds.
What does Wordsworth want us to learn from the happy Warrior?
The way of life. From an external vantage point, the Warrior’s life might seem tough. But, in fact, he is at ease and peace thanks to the wisdom he’s developed over the years.
No level of agony and suffering should be capable of striking us off our path. Our purpose on Earth is to do good, show love, and maintain peace and harmony. We must do our duty with utmost honesty and selflessness. God’s prize awaits.
What are your thoughts on this fabulous poem? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below: