Thorold (Poem by James McIntyre)

Thorold

By James McIntyre

McCready, the great Irish tragedian, said that the view from Thorold was the finest in America.

Thorold is famous for its mills,

And the grand view from off its hills,

A view so charming and extended,

Nature's beauties sweetly blended.

Poetic thoughts it doth awake

To view Ontario's broad lake,

And husbandmen have their reward in

Fruits of this Provincial garden.

For from the hill you see below

Gardens where choice fruits do grow,

The landscape all within your reach

Doth both produce the grape and peach.

McCready said in the New World

The finest view was from Thorold,

You see St. Catharines thriving town

And steamers sailing up and down.

And you can see on a clear day

All along Toronto Bay,

And you clearly see the haze

Where Niagara doth amaze.

And glance where Grimsby's gardens yield

Or view Beamsville's fruitful field,

Then this thought you can advance,

This is Canada's sunny France.

You see Niagara's ancient town

Though it has lost us old renown,

And you have a splendid view

Of boats on old canal and new.

Notefoot:

Niagara once the capital of Upper Canada and an important fortress at the mouth of the Niagara River.

Poem Analysis:

James McIntyre's poem "Thorold" serves as a lyrical ode to the picturesque town of Thorold, Ontario, capturing its natural beauty, agricultural abundance, and historical significance. Through vivid imagery and a reflective tone, McIntyre celebrates Thorold's landscape, its thriving mills, and the panoramic views from its hills.

Natural Splendor: McIntyre opens the poem by highlighting Thorold's natural charm, describing it as a place where "Nature's beauties sweetly blended." He emphasizes the grandeur of the town's surroundings, particularly the breathtaking views of Lake Ontario and the lush landscapes that stretch out below the hills. The imagery of gardens teeming with fruits like grapes and peaches evokes a sense of abundance and fertility.

Historical and Cultural Significance: The poem pays homage to Thorold's historical importance, particularly its mills, which were instrumental in the town's development. McIntyre's reference to Thorold's mills underscores their economic significance and the role they played in shaping the town's identity. Additionally, the mention of St. Catharines and Niagara highlights Thorold's connections to neighboring communities and its place within the broader region.

Panoramic Views: McIntyre vividly describes the panoramic views from Thorold's hills, noting landmarks such as Toronto Bay, Grimsby's gardens, and Niagara's ancient town. These sweeping vistas offer a glimpse of the diverse landscapes and settlements that dot the region, showcasing Thorold's vantage point as a hub of observation and contemplation.

Agricultural Riches: The poem celebrates Thorold's agricultural prosperity, portraying it as a "Provincial garden" and likening it to "Canada's sunny France." McIntyre emphasizes the abundance of fruits and fertile fields, suggesting that Thorold's agricultural bounty is a source of pride and prosperity for its residents.

Nostalgia and Reverence: Throughout the poem, McIntyre's tone is one of nostalgia and reverence, as he reflects on Thorold's past glory and enduring beauty. His admiration for the town's natural and cultural heritage shines through, underscoring the deep connection between place and memory.

Overall Impression: "Thorold" by James McIntyre is a lyrical tribute to a town characterized by its natural splendor, economic vitality, and historical significance. Through his evocative language and imagery, McIntyre invites readers to appreciate the timeless beauty and enduring charm of Thorold, painting a vivid portrait of a place rich in both history and natural bounty.

In essence, McIntyre's poem serves as a testament to the enduring allure of Thorold, capturing the essence of a town steeped in history, surrounded by natural beauty, and brimming with agricultural abundance. Through his verses, McIntyre invites readers to embark on a poetic journey to Thorold, where the past meets the present in a harmonious tapestry of landscapes, culture, and community.