'The Twa Jocks' by Robert Service
AI and Tech Aggregator
Download Mp3s Free
Tears of the Kingdom Roleplay
Best Free University Courses Online
TOTK Roleplay
Says Bauldy MacGreegor frae Gleska tae Hecky MacCrimmon frae Skye:
"That's whit I hate maist aboot fechtin' -- it makes ye sae deevilish dry;
Noo jist hae a keek at yon ferm-hoose them Gairmans are poundin' sae fine,
Weel, think o' it, doon in the dunnie there's bottles and bottles o' wine.
A' hell's fairly belchin' oot yonner, but oh, lad, I'm ettlin' tae try. . . ."
"If it's poose she'll be with ye whateffer," says Hecky MacCrimmon frae Skye.~
Says Bauldy MacGreegor frae Gleska: "Whit price fur a funeral wreath?
We're dodgin' a' kinds o' destruction, an' jist by the skin o' oor teeth.
Here, spread yersel oot on yer belly, and slither along in the glaur;
Confoond ye, ye big Hielan' deevil! Ye don't realize there's a war.
Ye think that ye're back in Dunvegan, and herdin' the wee bits o' kye."
"She'll neffer trink wine in Dunfegan," says Hecky MacCrimmon frae Skye.~
Says Bauldy MacGreegor frae Gleska: "Thank goodness! the ferm-hoose at last;
There's no muckle left but the cellar, an' even that's vanishin' fast.
Look oot, there's the corpse o' a wumman, sair mangelt and deid by her lane.
Quick! Strike a match. . . . Whit did I tell ye! A hale bonny box o' shampane;
Jist knock the heid aff o' a bottle. . . . Haud on, mon, I'm hearing a cry. . . ."
"She'll think it's a wean that wass greetin'," says Hecky MacCrimmon frae Skye.~
Says Bauldy MacGreegor frae Gleska: quot;Ma conscience! I'm hanged but yer richt.
It's yin o' thae waifs of the war-field, a' sobbin' and shakin' wi' fricht.
Wheesht noo, dear, we're no gaun tae hurt ye. We're takin' ye hame, my wee doo!
We've got tae get back wi' her, Hecky. Whit mercy we didna get fou!
We'll no touch a drap o' that likker -- that's hard, man, ye canna deny. . . ."
"It's the last thing she'll think o' denyin'," says Hecky MacCrimmon frae Skye.
Says Bauldy MacGreegor frae Gleska: "If I should get struck frae the rear,
Ye'll tak' and ye'll shield the wee lassie, and rin for the lines like a deer.
God! Wis that the breenge o' a bullet? I'm thinkin' it's cracket ma spine.
I'm doon on ma knees in the glabber; I'm fearin', auld man, I've got mine.
Here, quick! Pit yer erms roon the lassie. Noo, rin, lad! good luck and good-by. . . .
"Hoots, mon! it's ye baith she'll be takin'," says Hecky MacCrimmon frae Skye.~
Says Corporal Muckle frae Rannoch: "Is that no' a picture tae frame?
Twa sair woundit Jocks wi' a lassie jist like ma wee Jeannie at hame.
We're prood o' ye baith, ma brave heroes. We'll gie ye a medal, I think."
Says Bauldy MacGreegor frae Gleska: "I'd raither ye gied me a drink.
I'll no speak for Private MacCrimmon, but oh, mon, I'm perishin' dry. . . ."
"She'll wush that Loch Lefen wass whuskey," says Hecky MacCrimmon frae Skye.~
Editor 1 Interpretation
The Twa Jocks: A Masterpiece of Scottish Poetry
Are you familiar with the famous poem by Robert Service called "The Twa Jocks"? If not, you are in for a treat. This is one of the most well-known and beloved poems in Scottish literature, and it has captivated readers for over a century. In this literary criticism and interpretation, we will explore the various elements that make this poem so powerful, from its vivid imagery and humor to its underlying themes of class, identity, and human nature.
Overview of the Poem
First, let's give a brief overview of the poem. "The Twa Jocks" is a narrative poem that tells the story of two men, or "jocks," who are traveling together on a train. One is a well-to-do businessman, while the other is a working-class laborer. As the train hurtles through the Scottish countryside, the two men strike up a conversation and begin to compare their lives and perspectives. What follows is a humorous and poignant dialogue that touches on issues of social class, personal values, and the universal struggles of human existence.
The Power of Imagery
One of the most striking aspects of "The Twa Jocks" is the vivid imagery that Robert Service creates. From the opening lines, we are transported to the world of the train and the Scottish landscape:
The Twa Jocks rade in a railway train, And O! but they were blellum!
Here, we can almost hear the chugging of the train and feel the excitement of the two men as they embark on their journey. Throughout the poem, Service uses rich, descriptive language to paint a picture of the scenery and the characters themselves. For example, when describing the businessman, he writes:
The tane was stiff wi' starch and pride, The tither like a bear;
This line captures not only the physical appearance of the two men but also their personalities and attitudes. The businessman is stiff and formal, while the laborer is rough and unpolished.
The Power of Humor
Another key element of "The Twa Jocks" is its humor. Service was known for his wit and satire, and this poem is no exception. The dialogue between the two men is full of clever quips and jabs, as they try to one-up each other and prove their own superiority. For example, when the businessman boasts about his fine clothes and expensive lifestyle, the laborer responds:
"You're like a craw that's got a feather, And thinks it's like a doo."
Here, the laborer is poking fun at the businessman's inflated sense of self-importance, comparing him to a naive bird who doesn't realize how small he is. This kind of humor not only adds levity to the poem but also serves to highlight the differences between the two men and the class divide that separates them.
The Power of Themes
At its core, "The Twa Jocks" is a poem about social class and the struggle for identity. The two men represent two different worlds: the privileged upper class and the working-class underdog. Throughout the poem, they engage in a battle of wits and words, each trying to prove their own worth and place in the world. However, as the poem progresses, it becomes clear that their differences are not as stark as they first seem. Both men have faced challenges and hardships in their lives, and both are searching for a sense of meaning and purpose.
One of the key moments in the poem comes when the businessman reveals that he is actually a self-made man, who started out as a poor farmer's son and worked his way up through hard work and determination. This revelation humanizes him and shows that he is not just a snobbish elitist, but also a person who has struggled and overcome.
"I ken what it is to be hungry, man, And to work baith late and ear';
I've had to start frae the vera dirt, And toil my wey to gear."
Similarly, the laborer reveals that he is not just a brute force of nature but also a man with his own values and principles. When asked what he would do if he suddenly became wealthy, he responds:
"I'd be the same as I am noo, And nae chapping at the door; For tho' my claes are aften torn, My he'rt is unco' pure."
Here, the laborer is asserting his own sense of identity and rejecting the idea that money and material possessions are the key to happiness or success.
Conclusion
Overall, "The Twa Jocks" is a masterful poem that combines humor, imagery, and deep themes of social class and identity. Robert Service's talent as a poet is on full display here, as he creates two vivid characters and sets them on a journey of self-discovery and mutual understanding. Whether you are a fan of Scottish literature or simply appreciate great poetry, "The Twa Jocks" is a must-read. So, what are you waiting for? Hop on board the train and join the two jocks on their unforgettable journey.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
The Twa Jocks: A Classic Poem by Robert Service
If you're a fan of classic poetry, then you've probably heard of Robert Service. He was a Scottish-Canadian poet who wrote some of the most memorable and beloved poems of the 20th century. One of his most famous works is "The Twa Jocks," a humorous and entertaining poem that tells the story of two Scottish lads who get into a bit of trouble. In this article, we'll take a closer look at "The Twa Jocks" and explore its themes, symbolism, and literary devices.
Summary of "The Twa Jocks"
"The Twa Jocks" is a narrative poem that tells the story of two young Scottish men named Jock and Tam. The two friends are out drinking one night when they decide to steal a sheep from a nearby farm. They succeed in their mission, but as they're carrying the sheep home, they're caught by the farmer. The farmer chases them through the countryside, and the two friends are forced to abandon the sheep and flee for their lives. In the end, they return home, exhausted and ashamed, and vow never to steal again.
Themes in "The Twa Jocks"
One of the main themes of "The Twa Jocks" is the consequences of bad behavior. Jock and Tam's decision to steal a sheep leads to a series of unfortunate events that ultimately result in their humiliation and shame. The poem serves as a cautionary tale, warning readers about the dangers of making poor choices and engaging in criminal behavior.
Another theme in the poem is the importance of friendship. Jock and Tam are best friends, and they stick together through thick and thin. Even when they're caught stealing and forced to flee for their lives, they remain loyal to each other. The poem celebrates the bond of friendship and the power of camaraderie in the face of adversity.
Symbolism in "The Twa Jocks"
One of the most interesting aspects of "The Twa Jocks" is its use of symbolism. The sheep that Jock and Tam steal represents their desire for something that doesn't belong to them. The sheep is a symbol of temptation, and the fact that they're willing to risk everything to steal it shows just how strong that temptation can be.
The farmer who chases Jock and Tam through the countryside is a symbol of justice. He represents the consequences of bad behavior, and his pursuit of the two friends serves as a reminder that actions have consequences.
Literary Devices in "The Twa Jocks"
Robert Service was a master of literary devices, and "The Twa Jocks" is no exception. One of the most notable devices he uses in the poem is rhyme. The poem is written in a rhyming couplet format, with each pair of lines ending in a rhyme. This gives the poem a musical quality and makes it easy to remember.
Another literary device Service uses is repetition. Throughout the poem, he repeats certain phrases and words, such as "twa jocks" and "the farmer's wrath." This repetition serves to emphasize the importance of these elements in the story and helps to create a sense of rhythm and flow.
Conclusion
"The Twa Jocks" is a classic poem that has stood the test of time. Its themes of consequences, friendship, and temptation are still relevant today, and its use of symbolism and literary devices make it a joy to read and analyze. If you're a fan of poetry, then you owe it to yourself to read "The Twa Jocks" and discover for yourself why it's considered one of Robert Service's greatest works.
Editor Recommended Sites
Cloud Training - DFW Cloud Training, Southlake / Westlake Cloud Training: Cloud training in DFW Texas from ex-GoogleDev Flowcharts: Flow charts and process diagrams, architecture diagrams for cloud applications and cloud security. Mermaid and flow diagrams
GCP Tools: Tooling for GCP / Google Cloud platform, third party githubs that save the most time
Crypto Defi - Best Defi resources & Staking and Lending Defi: Defi tutorial for crypto / blockchain / smart contracts
Learn Sparql: Learn to sparql graph database querying and reasoning. Tutorial on Sparql
Recommended Similar Analysis
In A Dark Time by Theodore Roethke analysisThe Pulley by George Herbert analysis
Birds Of Passage by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow analysis
Brown Penny by William Butler Yeats analysis
Quid Hic Agis? by Thomas Hardy analysis
One Wants A Teller In A Time Like This by Gwendolyn Brooks analysis
Mandalay by Rudyard Kipling analysis
Quicksand Years by Walt Whitman analysis
THE SPECTRE OF THE REAL by Thomas Hardy analysis
Nature rarer uses yellow by Emily Dickinson analysis