'Laughter' by Robert Service
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I Laugh at Life: its antics make for me a giddy games,
Where only foolish fellows take themselves with solemn aim.
I laugh at pomp and vanity, at riches, rank and pride;
At social inanity, at swager, swank and side.
At poets, pastry-cooks and kings, at folk sublime and small,
Who fuss about a thousand things that matter not at all;
At those who dream of name and fame, at those who scheme for pelf. . . .
But best of all the laughing game - is laughing at myself.
Some poet chap had labelled man the noblest work of God:
I see myself a charlatan, a humbug and a fraud.
Yea, 'spite of show and shallow wit, an sentimental drool,
I know myself a hypocrite, a coward and a fool.
And though I kick myself with glee profoundly on the pants,
I'm little worse, it seems to me, than other human ants.
For if you probe your private mind, impervious to shame,
Oh, Gentle Reader, you may find you're much about the same.
Then let us mock with ancient mirth this comic, cosmic plan;
The stars are laughing at the earth; God's greatest joke is man.
For laughter is a buckler bright, and scorn a shining spear;
So let us laugh with all our might at folly, fraud and fear.
Yet on our sorry selves be spent our most sardonic glee.
Oh don't pay life a compliment to take is seriously.
For he who can himself despise, be surgeon to the bone,
May win to worth in others' eyes, to wisdom in his own.
Editor 1 Interpretation
Laughter by Robert Service: A Literary Criticism and Interpretation
"Laughter," written by Robert Service, is a classic poem that explores the power of laughter to overcome sorrow and despair. In this 32-line poem, Service uses vivid imagery and figurative language to create a world of laughter that is both uplifting and poignant.
The Poem
The poem opens with an evocative description of laughter as a "magic thing." Service describes it as a force that can "wipe away tears" and "lift the weary soul." The speaker then goes on to describe how laughter can "heal the broken-hearted" and "banish pain and strife."
Service's use of repetition in the opening lines of the poem reinforces the idea that laughter is a powerful force that can overcome even the darkest of emotions. The repetition of the phrase "It is" also gives the poem a rhythmic quality that adds to its overall impact.
The middle section of the poem focuses on the power of laughter to bring people together. Service describes how laughter can "make a stranger a friend" and "turn the enemy into a brother." This section of the poem is particularly effective because it speaks to the universality of laughter as a human experience. Everyone, regardless of culture or background, knows the joy of laughter and the way it can create connections between people.
The final section of the poem takes a more somber turn as Service explores the idea that laughter can also be fleeting. He describes how laughter can "die away" and how the soul can be left "aching and alone." This section of the poem is a reminder that while laughter can be a powerful force, it is not a cure-all for the problems of life. Even in moments of joy, we must remember that sorrow and pain are never far away.
Interpretation
At its core, "Laughter" is a poem about the power of human connection. Service shows us how laughter can bring people together and create bonds that transcend differences. He also reminds us that even in the darkest of times, laughter can help us find hope and joy.
One of the key themes of the poem is the idea that laughter is a force for healing. Service repeatedly emphasizes the ability of laughter to "wipe away tears" and "heal the broken-hearted." This idea is particularly relevant in today's world, where so many people are struggling with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Service's poem reminds us that laughter can be a powerful tool in our efforts to heal and move forward.
Another important theme of the poem is the idea that laughter is universal. Service shows us how laughter can bring people together regardless of their backgrounds or differences. This idea is particularly resonant in today's world, where so much division and conflict seem to be tearing us apart. Service's poem is a reminder that even in the midst of turmoil, laughter can bring us back together.
Finally, the poem is a reminder that while laughter can be a powerful force, it is not a cure-all for the problems of life. Service's final lines remind us that even in moments of joy, we must remember that sorrow and pain are never far away. This is an important lesson for all of us, as we navigate the ups and downs of life.
Conclusion
"Laughter" is a classic poem that explores the power of laughter to overcome sorrow and despair. Through vivid imagery and figurative language, Service creates a world of laughter that is both uplifting and poignant. The poem reminds us that laughter is a force for healing that can bring people together and create bonds that transcend differences. At the same time, it is a reminder that while laughter can be a powerful force, it is not a cure-all for the problems of life.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Laughter is a classic poem written by Robert Service, a renowned poet known for his ability to capture the essence of human emotions in his works. This poem is a beautiful representation of the power of laughter and how it can bring joy and happiness to our lives. In this analysis, we will explore the themes, literary devices, and the overall message of the poem.
The poem begins with the line, "Do you believe in laughter?" This line immediately captures the reader's attention and sets the tone for the rest of the poem. It is a rhetorical question that invites the reader to reflect on the importance of laughter in their lives. The poem then goes on to describe the different types of laughter that exist in the world.
The first type of laughter that the poem describes is the laughter of children. The poem describes this laughter as "pure and free." This type of laughter is innocent and unencumbered by the worries and stresses of adult life. It is a reminder of the joy and simplicity of childhood.
The second type of laughter that the poem describes is the laughter of lovers. This laughter is described as "tender and sweet." It is the laughter that comes from being in love and sharing intimate moments with someone special. It is a reminder of the power of love to bring happiness and joy into our lives.
The third type of laughter that the poem describes is the laughter of friends. This laughter is described as "warm and true." It is the laughter that comes from sharing experiences and memories with people who know us best. It is a reminder of the importance of friendship in our lives.
The fourth type of laughter that the poem describes is the laughter of the old. This laughter is described as "mellow and wise." It is the laughter that comes from a lifetime of experiences and the wisdom that comes with age. It is a reminder of the value of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
Throughout the poem, Service uses a variety of literary devices to convey his message. One of the most prominent devices is imagery. Service uses vivid descriptions to paint a picture of each type of laughter. For example, when describing the laughter of children, he writes, "It bubbles and it sparkles like the water in a brook." This image creates a sense of joy and playfulness that is associated with childhood.
Another literary device that Service uses is repetition. He repeats the phrase "Do you believe in laughter?" throughout the poem. This repetition serves to reinforce the importance of laughter and to emphasize the message of the poem.
Service also uses personification to give life to the different types of laughter. For example, he writes, "Laughter of lovers is like a rose." This personification creates a sense of beauty and fragility that is associated with love.
The overall message of the poem is that laughter is a powerful force that can bring joy and happiness into our lives. It is a reminder of the importance of cherishing the simple pleasures in life and of the value of human connection. The poem encourages us to embrace laughter and to find joy in the different types of laughter that exist in the world.
In conclusion, Laughter is a beautiful poem that captures the essence of human emotions. Through vivid imagery, repetition, and personification, Service conveys the message that laughter is a powerful force that can bring joy and happiness into our lives. The poem is a reminder of the importance of cherishing the simple pleasures in life and of the value of human connection. It is a timeless piece of literature that will continue to inspire and uplift readers for generations to come.
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