'Century of Roundels' Summary

This book contains a collection of 100 roundels, a poetic form invented by Swinburne. Each poem adheres to the strict rules of the form, with a refrain that appears twice in each nine-line stanza. The collection's dedication to Christina Rossetti reveals the influence of the roundel form on other poets of the Victorian era. The themes of these roundels span a wide range of subjects, exploring love, nature, the passage of time, and the human condition. While some poems are directly addressed to Rossetti, others touch upon themes of beauty, passion, and the fleeting nature of existence. Through the intricate structure and lyrical style of the roundel, Swinburne creates a unique and compelling collection of poetry that showcases his technical skill and explores profound themes of human experience.