Genre:

Poetry

Subjects:

Electricity, Military Technology, Nationalism, Cultural Geography

    Introduces the concept of electrical insulation and gives examples of insulators. Likens insulation to an island surrounded by water and relishes the fact that Great Britain is so well insulated from the rest of the world. Observes that Britain's insulation from invaders is ensured by a fleet of ships. Compares the repulsive power of an electrified maiden to the power of Britain to repel 'foolish foreign ones'. Celebrates Britain's insularity of 'thought and notion', but hopes the country will never lose its insularity, even if it loses its insulation.