The origins of the poem can be traced to Southey 's schoolboy days when he completed a prose version of Madoc 's story .
It is based on the legend of Madoc , a supposed Welsh prince who fled internecine conflict and sailed to America in the 12th century .
The origins of the poem can be traced to Southey 's schoolboy days when he completed a prose version of prince 's story .
It is based on the legend of Madoc , a supposed Welsh prince who fled internecine conflict and sailed to America in the 12th century .