Laura Secord, the heroine of 1812. A Drama. and Other Poems.   By: Sarah Anne Curzon (1833-1898)

In Sarah Anne Curzon's collection of poems, "Laura Secord, the heroine of 1812. A Drama. and Other Poems," readers are treated to a captivating and inspiring exploration of the bravery and resilience displayed by one of Canada's iconic figures.

The book opens with the titular drama, delving deep into the life and actions of the remarkable Laura Secord. Curzon's vivid language and meticulous attention to detail transport readers back to the War of 1812, where Secord's fearless determination to warn the British forces of an impending attack becomes a testament to her unwavering patriotism. Through this drama, Curzon effectively captures the essence of Secord's heroism, painting her as a woman who defies societal expectations and demonstrates the very best of human courage.

In addition to "Laura Secord, the heroine of 1812," Curzon presents readers with a collection of other poems, each with their own unique charm and allure. These poems touch upon various themes, such as love, nature, and the struggles faced by women in a patriarchal society. Curzon's eloquent verses and evocative imagery immensely contribute to the emotional resonance of these pieces, allowing readers to connect and empathize with the diverse set of characters portrayed within.

One particularly notable aspect of Curzon's work is her ability to seamlessly blend historical content with the emotive power of poetry. While the historical drama of Laura Secord serves as the centerpiece, the other poems provide a strong supporting narrative that enhances the overall reading experience. Curzon's meticulous research is evident in her portrayal of Secord's era, making the book not only an enjoyable read but also an educational one.

Despite the excellence found within these pages, one might argue that the collection lacks a certain cohesiveness. The inclusion of poems unrelated to the main narrative might at times divert reader's attention from the central theme of heroism. However, this can also be seen as a strength, as it highlights the versatility and range of Curzon as a poet.

In conclusion, Sarah Anne Curzon's "Laura Secord, the heroine of 1812. A Drama. and Other Poems" is a captivating and beautifully written collection that keeps readers engaged from cover to cover. By honoring the remarkable Laura Secord and intertwining her story with a variety of other poetic narratives, Curzon successfully captures the essence of heroism, love, and the perseverance of women in a mesmerizing blend of history and artistry.

First Page:

The drama of "Laura Secord" was written to rescue from oblivion the name of a brave woman, and set it in its proper place among the heroes of Canadian history. During the first few years of her residence in Canada the author was often astonished to hear it remarked, no less among educated than uneducated Canadians, that "Canada has no history;" and yet on every hand stories were current of the achievements of the pioneers, and the hardships endured and overcome by the United Empire Loyalists. Remembering that, as soon as she had conquered the merest rudiments of reading and grammar at school, she was set to learn English History, and so become acquainted with the past of her country, it seemed to the writer that there was something lacking in a course of teaching that could leave Canadians to think that their country had no historical past... Continue reading book >>