The Beginnings

From The Poem Reader by Dominic Frisby

November 13, 2025 · 1 min

About this episode

The episode explores the themes and emotions surrounding the poem 'When the English began to hate'.

It was not part of their blood,It came to them very lateWith long arrears to make good,When the English began to hate. They were not easily moved, They were icy-willing to wait Till every count should be proved, Ere the English began to hate. Their voices were even and low, Their eyes were level and straight. There was neither sign nor show, When the English began to hate. It was not preached to the crowd, It was not taught by the State. No man spoke it aloud, When the English began to hate. It was not suddenly bred, It will not swiftly abate, Through the chill years ahead, When Time shall count from the date That the English began to hate. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepoemreader.com

People in this episode

Host: Dominic Frisby

Topics covered

poetry
English literature
historical themes
emotions
cultural identity

Keywords

poem
hate
English
literature
cultural themes

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: When the English began to hate