The poems “Old Ironside” and “Douglass” depict two very passionate authors on their respective subjects. Each poem demonstrates the need to honor and preserve the memories and accomplishments of both Douglass and of the old ship. While both authors are mourning the end of a journey by something or someone, author Oliver Wendell Holmes’ choice of words does a better job at engaging the readers’ senses, emotions, and imagination. The descriptive language used by Holmes creates a vivid picture of battles, victories, accomplishments, resilience, grief and ultimately the need to admire and value this honorary ship. The three stanza poem “Old Ironsides,” describes the ship's strength, the very historic past, and the important symbol the ship is.
