Iberia Won; A poem descriptive of the Peninsular War With impressions from recent visits to the battle-grounds, and copious historical and illustrative notes

A sweeping verse portrait of the Peninsular War, this poem moves from the rugged hills of Portugal to the bustling streets of Madrid, tracing the clash of armies with a lyrical eye for both battlefield drama and the everyday lives caught in its wake. The language is deliberately grand yet grounded, allowing listeners to hear the clash of sabres alongside the whispered prayers of villagers.

The author spent six years wandering the Iberian Peninsula, visiting sites such as Bayonne, Vitoria and San Sebastián, and each canto is accompanied by careful historical notes that place the poetry in its exact context. This blend of personal observation and meticulous research offers a balanced tribute to British, Allied, and French forces, while never shying away from the grim reality of war.

The result is a richly textured listening experience: vivid, rhythmic storytelling that is enhanced by informative footnotes, inviting the audience to imagine the sights, sounds, and moral complexities of a conflict that shaped a continent.