Abraham Lincoln: An Horatian Ode

"Abraham Lincoln: An Horatian Ode" by Richard Henry Stoddard is a deeply felt poem created in the wake of Lincoln's death, acting as a memorial. It is a reflective and mournful piece, capturing the widespread sorrow and sense of tragedy that gripped the country after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. The poem examines ideas of heroism, focusing on Lincoln's down-to-earth personality and highlights the importance of his death on the American people at the time. Stoddard's poem starts by setting the scene, contrasting Lincoln's sudden assassination with those of other leaders, describing Lincoln’s passing as uniquely sad and unexpected. In the poem's verses, Stoddard depicts Lincoln as a relatable man of the people, someone with humble roots, who guided the country during the Civil War. Through vivid word choice, it illustrates the chaos that followed Lincoln’s death, compelling the nation to remember his legacy. The book ends with a strong plea to never forget Lincoln, ensuring that the virtues associated with his name will be celebrated forever.