Sir Copp: A poem for the times, in six cantos

A bold, sprawling verse unfolds in six cantos, setting its stage during a nation’s darkest hours. The poet paints a stark portrait of betrayal, targeting the “copperheads” who masquerade as loyal citizens while starving soldiers and robbing widows. At the same time, the poem lifts the steadfast spirit of those who rally to protect their country and faith, using vivid language that feels both urgent and ceremonial.

Within the opening act, the work balances sharp satire with heartfelt tribute, even mourning the recent loss of a beloved leader. It weaves reflections on the fragile foundations of liberty, insisting that true freedom rests on collective virtue and responsibility. The contrast between treachery and patriotism is rendered in striking detail, inviting listeners to contemplate the moral choices that shape a nation’s future.