"Hyperion" is an epic poem by the English poet John Keats. Interestingly, Keats made the decision to discontinue this poem primarily because it bore a striking resemblance to the distinctive style of John Milton. Despite his uncertainties, Keats went on to publish this incomplete version in 1820.

Subsequently, he started writing another poem centered on the same theme, titled "The Fall of Hyperion." However, he eventually discontinued work on the secondary poem, which was posthumously published in 1856.

"Hyperion" is a complex and ambitious poem that explores the world of ancient Greek mythology and the struggles of the gods in a changing cosmos. Keats' use of language, vivid imagery, and exploration of themes make it a significant contribution to Romantic poetry.

Set in a celestial realm far removed from the mortal world, the poem comprises three books and centers on the Titans' conflict with the gods. The Olympians have replaced the Titans, and the poem explores the Titans' desire to reclaim their lost power and glory, making revenge one of the more prominent themes.

Book I delves into the narrative of Saturn's despair following his son Jupiter's ascent to power, ousting him from the throne and establishing the Olympians' dominance. The character of Saturn serves as a symbol of the old order, while Jupiter (Jove) represents the new regime. The poem also explores the Titan Hyperion's desire to overthrow Jupiter and reinstate Saturn to the throne. Hyperion remains the sole Titan who has yet to be defeated, retaining his powers.

"Fall!—No, by Tellus and her briny robes!
"Over the fiery frontier of my realms
"I will advance a terrible right arm
"Shall scare that infant thunderer, rebel Jove,
"And bid old Saturn take his throne again."

Book II presents the internal struggles and debates among the Titans as they grapple with their defeat and the rise of the Olympian gods. The poem presents a range of perspectives, from Oceanus' resignation and acceptance to Clymene's rational arguments to Enceladus' rebellion, highlighting the undeniable force of change.

Book III is marked by the emergence of Apollo as a central figure and sets the stage for the continuation of his divine journey. The book ends without providing details about Apollo's transformation, focusing instead on his acquired knowledge.

"Knowledge enormous makes a god of me.
"Names, deeds, gray legends, dire events, rebellions,
"Majesties, sovran voices, agonies,
"Creations and destroyings, all at once
"Pour into the wide hollows of my brain,
"And deify me, as if some blithe wine
"Or bright elixir peerless I had drunk,
"And so become immortal."

In this context, a prominent theme is the supremacy of knowledge, with Apollo gaining power through understanding humanity's sorrow. Keats suggests comprehending pain and suffering might be mightier than the Titans' raw power.

Keats delves deeper into the theme of knowledge in "The Fall of Hyperion." Here, the goddess Moneta enters a poet's dream, emphasizing that the poet's genuine vocation lies in embracing human suffering rather than human dreams and aspirations.

Keats employs a variety of rhyming patterns and meters in both "Hyperion" and "The Fall of Hyperion," including iambic pentameter and blank verse. The poem does not adhere to a strict rhyme scheme, allowing for flexibility in its structure.

"Hyperion" can be interpreted as a celebration of poetry's capacity to authentically depict the human experience, particularly when poets grasp human suffering, and as a social commentary. The fall of the Titans and the rise of the Olympians symbolize the fall of the French monarchy and the rise of the French Republic. Keats implies that only individuals who understand the common people's experiences can effectively lead a nation instead of privileged royalty.