'Hero Worship' by Robert Service
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Said he: "You saw the Master clear;
By Rushy Pond alone he sat,
Serene and silent as a seer,
in tweedy coat and seedy hat.
you tell me you did not intrude,
(Although his book was in your hand,)
Upon his melancholy mood . . .
I do not understand.
"You did not tell him: 'I have come
From o'er the sea to speak to you.'
You did not dare, your lips were dumb . . .
You thought a little zephyr blew
From Rushy Pond a touch of him
You'll cherish to your dying day,
Perhaps with tears your eyes were dim . . .
And then - you went away.
"And down the years you will proclaim:
'O call me dullard, dub me dunce!
But let this be my meed of fame:
I looked on Thomas Hardy once.
Aye, by a stile I stood a span
And with these eyes did plainly see
A little, shrinking, shabby man . . .
But Oh a god to me!'"
Said I: "'Tis true, I scarce dared look,
yet he would have been kind, I'm sure;
But though I clutched his precious book
I feared to beg his signature.
Ah yes, my friend, I merit mirth.
You're bold, you have the right to laugh,
And if Christ came again to earth
You'd cadge his autograph."
Editor 1 Interpretation
Hero Worship: A Literary Criticism and Interpretation
Introduction
Robert Service's poem "Hero Worship" is a masterpiece of poetry that delves into the theme of heroism and the different forms it can take. The poem is a celebration of heroic deeds and the people who perform them, but it also sheds light on the darker side of hero worship and the consequences that can arise from it. In this literary criticism and interpretation, I will analyze the poem in detail, examining its structure, language, imagery, and themes, and providing my own insights into its meaning and significance.
Form and Structure
"Hero Worship" consists of fourteen stanzas, each with four lines, and follows a consistent rhyme scheme of ABCB. The poem's form and structure are simple, but effective, allowing the message to come through clearly and powerfully. The regular meter and rhyme create a sense of rhythm and repetition, emphasizing the poem's themes and making it easy to remember. The use of stanzas also helps to break up the poem into manageable chunks, making it easier for the reader to follow and understand.
Language and Imagery
Service's language and imagery are a major strength of "Hero Worship." The poem is full of vivid descriptions and compelling metaphors that bring the heroic deeds it describes to life. For example, in the first stanza, Service writes:
We love them, call them heroes, demi-gods, Who, living darkly, far from public view, Have given us the splendid things we prize, Ennobling all the race with spirit new.
Here, Service is using language to elevate the heroes to the status of gods, emphasizing their greatness and the impact they have had on society. The use of the phrase "living darkly" creates a sense of mystery and intrigue, suggesting that the heroes are not fully understood or appreciated by those around them. The metaphor of the heroes giving us "splendid things" is also powerful, suggesting that their deeds have enriched our lives and made us better people.
Throughout the poem, Service uses language and imagery to create a sense of awe and reverence for the heroes. He describes them as "knights in armor," "titanic sons of men," and "gods of valour," emphasizing their strength, courage, and nobility. He also uses powerful metaphors to describe their deeds, such as "they have plucked the stars like fruit," "they have walked on the floor of the sea," and "they have ridden the whirlwind's wing." These metaphors are not only impressive but also create a sense of wonder and amazement, as if the heroes are performing feats that are almost supernatural.
Themes
The main theme of "Hero Worship" is the idea of heroism and the different forms it can take. Service celebrates the heroes who have performed great deeds and made a difference in the world, but he also highlights the dangers of hero worship and the potential consequences that can arise from it. Throughout the poem, Service presents a nuanced view of heroism, recognizing its importance and value but also acknowledging its limitations and flaws.
One of the key themes of the poem is the idea that heroes are not perfect and can make mistakes. Service writes:
And yet these gods of valour, these great men, Are but the children of our common clay; Their faults and virtues are akin to ours, Their lives the same as ours, their end one day.
Here, Service is emphasizing that heroes are human beings like anyone else, and that they are subject to the same flaws and imperfections that we all have. He is also suggesting that hero worship can be dangerous because it can lead to unrealistic expectations and disappointment when the hero inevitably falls short.
Another theme of the poem is the idea that heroism is not just about physical strength or bravery but also about moral courage and conviction. Service writes:
Not only does he dare the deed sublime, But he has dared to face the scorn of men, Has fought and conquered his own baser self, And won the battle ere he drew his sword.
Here, Service is suggesting that true heroism is not just about performing great deeds but also about standing up for what is right and being true to one's principles. He is also suggesting that this type of heroism is more difficult and more valuable than simply being physically brave.
Interpretation
"Hero Worship" is a powerful poem with a complex message that resonates with readers of all ages. The poem celebrates heroism and the people who perform great deeds, but it also acknowledges the risks and dangers of hero worship. Service's language and imagery are especially powerful, creating a sense of awe and reverence for the heroes and their deeds. The poem's themes of human imperfection and moral courage also add depth and nuance to its message, reminding us that heroism is not just about physical strength but also about standing up for what is right and being true to one's principles.
Overall, "Hero Worship" is a timeless work of poetry that continues to inspire and captivate readers today. Its message of heroism and its celebration of the human spirit are as relevant now as they were when the poem was first written, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its enduring power and appeal.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Hero Worship: An Analysis of Robert Service's Classic Poem
Robert Service's poem "Hero Worship" is a timeless classic that explores the concept of heroism and the admiration that people have for those who embody it. The poem is a celebration of the heroic spirit and the qualities that make heroes stand out from the rest of us. In this analysis, we will explore the themes and motifs of the poem and examine how Service uses language and imagery to convey his message.
The Heroic Spirit
At its core, "Hero Worship" is a poem about the heroic spirit. Service celebrates the qualities that make heroes stand out from the rest of us, such as courage, determination, and selflessness. He describes heroes as "men who dared and died," who "faced the foe with fearless eyes," and who "gave their lives for others' gain." These lines capture the essence of heroism, which is the willingness to put oneself in harm's way for the sake of others.
Service also emphasizes the importance of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. He writes, "They fought and fell, but o'er their grave / There floats the banner of the brave." This line suggests that even in death, heroes continue to inspire and motivate us to be brave and courageous in the face of adversity.
The Power of Admiration
Another theme that runs throughout the poem is the power of admiration. Service suggests that heroes inspire us to be better people, to strive for greatness, and to live up to our potential. He writes, "We lift our eyes to them on high, / And strive to win their fame." This line suggests that heroes serve as role models for us, and that we look up to them as examples of what we can achieve if we put our minds to it.
Service also suggests that admiration for heroes can be a powerful motivator. He writes, "We feel the thrill of their great deeds, / And long to follow where they led." This line suggests that heroes inspire us to take action, to do great things, and to make a difference in the world. Admiration for heroes can be a powerful force that drives us to be our best selves.
The Language of Heroism
One of the most striking features of "Hero Worship" is the language that Service uses to describe heroes. He employs a range of poetic devices, such as alliteration, metaphor, and personification, to create a vivid and powerful image of heroism.
For example, Service uses alliteration to create a sense of rhythm and momentum in the poem. He writes, "They dared and died, and still we say, / 'Their names be ever dear.'" The repetition of the "d" sound in these lines creates a sense of urgency and emphasizes the bravery of the heroes.
Service also uses metaphor to convey the idea of heroism. He writes, "They climbed the heights of sacrifice, / And o'er them hung the crown of Christ." This line suggests that heroes are like saints, who have achieved a higher level of spiritual enlightenment through their sacrifice and selflessness.
Finally, Service uses personification to give the heroes a sense of agency and power. He writes, "They fought and fell, but o'er their grave / There floats the banner of the brave." This line suggests that the heroes are still present, even in death, and that their bravery continues to inspire and motivate us.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "Hero Worship" is a powerful and moving poem that celebrates the heroic spirit and the qualities that make heroes stand out from the rest of us. Service uses language and imagery to convey his message, emphasizing the importance of courage, determination, and selflessness in the face of adversity. He also suggests that admiration for heroes can be a powerful motivator, inspiring us to be our best selves and to make a difference in the world. Overall, "Hero Worship" is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and motivate readers to this day.
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