This poem takes place in Ireland, specifically Ireland at the close of the nineteenth century. Although the poem doesn’t offer any concrete historical context, there are hints as to the state of the country at this time; the speaker begins by telling the reader that Ireland has been “wounded” (Line 1), yet also represents “the full splendours of our age” (Line 7). There is a clear sense that the country has become downtrodden and oppressed, having been stripped of its power; and yet, the speaker is “Waiting thy rise” (Line 47) so that her country can be restored to its true potential. Here, Ireland is conveyed as a place hovering at the precipice of greatness if it can only take that final step.