'Prisoner' by Dorothy Parker


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Death and Taxes1931Long I fought the driving lists,Plume a-stream and armor clanging;
Link on link, between my wrists,Now my heavy freedom's hanging.

Editor 1 Interpretation

"Poetry, Prisoner" by Dorothy Parker: A Witty and Vivid Exploration of Creative Imprisonment

Are you a lover of poetry? Do you find yourself drawn to the beauty and complexity of language, but also to the struggles and contradictions that often come with the creative process? If so, then you are sure to appreciate Dorothy Parker's "Poetry, Prisoner," a clever and poignant poem that explores the joys and frustrations of writing.

At its core, "Poetry, Prisoner" is a meditation on the role of creativity in our lives, and the ways in which it can both liberate and constrain us. Through a series of witty and vivid images, Parker captures the paradoxical nature of poetic inspiration, as well as the ways in which it can push us to the edge of our sanity.

One of the most striking features of the poem is its use of metaphor. Parker compares the experience of writing to a number of different things, such as being "in a cage of words" or "a prisoner of ink and paper." These metaphors are powerful because they capture the sense of confinement and limitation that often accompanies creativity, as well as the struggle to break free from those constraints.

At the same time, however, Parker's metaphors also suggest that writing can be a source of liberation and empowerment. For example, she describes the pen as a "wand," and suggests that the act of writing can transform the world around us. This idea is especially evident in the poem's final lines, in which Parker declares that "poetry is a prison, yes / but only poets know / that the walls are not a burden / but a freedom to bestow."

What is also noteworthy about "Poetry, Prisoner" is its use of irony and satire. Throughout the poem, Parker pokes fun at the romanticized image of the tortured artist, and suggests that the reality of creative work is often far less glamorous. For example, she describes the "sweat and blood" that go into every line of poetry, and notes that "the muse is deaf and blind." These lines are humorous, but also speak to the difficulties that writers face when trying to capture their ideas on paper.

Overall, "Poetry, Prisoner" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that captures the joys and struggles of creative work. Whether you are a poet yourself or simply appreciate the beauty of language, you are sure to find something to appreciate in this witty and insightful piece of writing. So why not take a few minutes to read it today? You just might find that it inspires you to pick up a pen and start writing yourself!

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

Poetry Prisoner: A Masterpiece by Dorothy Parker

Dorothy Parker, an American poet, writer, and critic, is known for her sharp wit and satirical writing style. Her poem "Poetry Prisoner" is a classic example of her unique style and mastery of language. In this 16-line poem, Parker captures the essence of the creative process and the struggles that come with it.

The poem begins with the speaker describing herself as a "prisoner" of poetry. This metaphorical language sets the tone for the rest of the poem, as the speaker goes on to describe the various ways in which poetry has taken over her life. She says that poetry has "locked me in this room" and that she is "chained to a chair." These images of confinement and restraint create a sense of claustrophobia and desperation, as if the speaker is trapped in a never-ending cycle of creativity.

The second stanza of the poem introduces the idea of inspiration. The speaker says that she is "waiting for the inspiration" to come, but it never does. This is a common struggle for writers and artists, as they often feel like they are at the mercy of their muse. The speaker goes on to say that she has "tried to force it," but this only leads to frustration and disappointment. This line is particularly powerful, as it speaks to the idea that creativity cannot be forced or manufactured. It is something that comes naturally, and when it does, it is a beautiful and magical experience.

The third stanza of the poem is perhaps the most poignant. The speaker says that she is "dying for a drink" and that she would "sell her soul" for a sip of inspiration. This line speaks to the desperation that many artists feel when they are struggling to create. It is a feeling of emptiness and longing, as if something vital is missing from their lives. The idea of selling one's soul is also significant, as it suggests that the speaker is willing to make a deal with the devil in order to achieve her creative goals.

The final stanza of the poem is a powerful conclusion to the speaker's journey. She says that she is "beaten, battered, and damned" and that she is "done with poetry." This line is a stark contrast to the beginning of the poem, where the speaker describes herself as a "prisoner" of poetry. It suggests that the creative process has taken a toll on her, both physically and emotionally. The final line of the poem, "as if it were a deadly sin," is a powerful statement about the nature of creativity. It suggests that the act of creating is both beautiful and dangerous, and that it can consume a person if they are not careful.

Overall, "Poetry Prisoner" is a masterpiece of modern poetry. It captures the essence of the creative process and the struggles that come with it. Dorothy Parker's use of metaphorical language and vivid imagery creates a sense of desperation and longing that is both relatable and powerful. The poem speaks to the universal human experience of trying to create something beautiful and meaningful, and the toll that it can take on a person. It is a testament to Parker's skill as a writer and her ability to capture the essence of the human experience in just a few lines of poetry.

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