Line 1

The celestial choir serves as the poet's muse, a neoclassical device, invoked to inspire the poet's work.

Line 2

Wheatley used "Columbia" to refer to America, a term adopted by other writers later on.

Line 3

The poem's central theme, "Freedom’s cause," highlights the colonists' struggle for independence from England, even if it meant waging war against the powerful British.

Line 4

Here, “dreadful” signifies “inspiring awe or reverence,” while “in refulgent arms” translates to “in brilliant defense.” Columbia (America) is depicted as righteous for opposing England.

Lines 5–6

The poem's speaker notes that other nations are observing a unique event unfolding in the rebellion, which ultimately inspired the French Revolution.

Lines 7–8

The struggle impacts heaven, evoking sorrow.

Lines 9–12

The poet illustrates the goddess of Freedom descending from the heavens to partake in the war. In ancient Greece, laurel wreaths crowned victors, while the olive branch symbolized peace.

Lines 13–14

The poet once again calls upon the muse to inspire the retelling of the battles faced by the American armies.

Lines 15–19

Using a simile, the poet likens the American forces' battles to the might of Eolus, the king of the winds.

Line 20

The term “train” refers to troops arranged in a military formation.

Lines 21–22

The “ensign” is a flag adorned with national colors or emblems, representing the army displaying it, typically featuring a colonial emblem.

Lines 23–25

“Thee” refers to Washington, with “first in peace” being a notable phrase from the poem, later used by Congress at Washington’s funeral. There's debate whether Wheatley wrote “first in peace” or “first in place,” given Washington’s role as commander-in-chief. Both versions have been published.

Lines 26–29

In 1620, just over a century before this poem was written, the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock.

Line 30

France, known for its military prowess, is referred to as “Gallic.”

Lines 31–32

The speaker believes America’s efforts are divinely approved and warns against those, like England, who oppose her.

Lines 33–34

The poet implies that the world is watching the war's outcome, anticipating a shift in power favoring the new nation.

Lines 35–38

England is portrayed as old and weary, responsible for many deaths, driven by a lust for power. The colonists initially sought peaceful resolutions but resorted to war to achieve independence.

Lines 39–42

The poet urges Washington to persist in his mission to secure freedom for the colonists, asserting that the goddess of Freedom is directing his efforts. By adhering to the goddess and her principles, the poet implies that Washington will triumph in the war and emerge as the leader of the new nation.