'Sensitive Burglar' by Robert Service
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Selecting in the dining-room
The silver of his choice,
The burglar heard from chamber gloom
A female voice.
As cold and bitter as a toad,
She spat a nasty name,
So even as his swag he stowed
He blushed for shame.
'You dirty dog!' he heard her say,
'I sniff your whisky stench.
I bet you've gambled half your pay,
Or blown it on a wench.
Begone from here, you rakehell boor!
You shame the human race.
What wife would pillow-share with your
Disgusting face!'
A tear the tender burglar shed,
Then indignation rose,
And swiftly striding to her bed
He said: 'I'm none of those.
I am a connoisseur in crime
And felonies I plan . . .
But otherwise, believe me I'm
A GENTLEMAN.'
Editor 1 Interpretation
The Sensitivity of a Burglar: A Literary Criticism of Robert Service's Poem
The art of poetry is often described as a form of expression that allows writers to convey their thoughts and emotions in a unique and powerful way. Through the use of language, rhythm, and imagery, poets can create works that resonate with their readers, evoking feelings and ideas that might otherwise remain hidden. One such poet who has mastered this art is Robert Service, whose poem "Sensitive Burglar" is a masterful exploration of the human condition.
At first glance, the title "Sensitive Burglar" might seem like an oxymoron. After all, burglars are commonly perceived as ruthless and heartless criminals who have no qualms about breaking into people's homes and stealing their possessions. However, as we delve deeper into the poem, we come to realize that the burglar in question is not your typical criminal. Instead, he is a complex and multi-dimensional character who possesses a deep sense of empathy and a profound understanding of the human psyche.
One of the most striking aspects of the poem is the way in which Service uses imagery to convey the burglar's emotional state. For instance, in the opening stanza, he describes the burglar as "slinking in the shadows like a panther black," a simile that immediately conjures up images of stealth and danger. However, the very next line reveals a softer side to the burglar's character: "He listened with a feline ear and caught the ticking clock." Here, the burglar's sensitivity and acute hearing are emphasized, suggesting that he is not simply a ruthless thief but a complex individual with a range of emotions and abilities.
Throughout the poem, Service continues to use vivid and evocative imagery to draw us into the world of the burglar. For example, he describes the burglar's movements as "sleek and sinuous" and his eyes as "flicker[ing] like a snake's." These descriptions not only paint a vivid picture of the burglar's physical appearance but also suggest a deeper psychological state. As we read on, we come to understand that the burglar is not just physically agile but mentally agile as well, able to adapt to his surroundings and anticipate the reactions of others.
Another key element of the poem is the way in which Service uses rhythm and rhyme to create a sense of tension and urgency. The poem is written in a ballad form, with a regular pattern of four-line stanzas and an ABAB rhyme scheme. This structure gives the poem a musical quality, allowing the words to flow smoothly and naturally. However, it also creates a sense of momentum and energy, driving the narrative forward and keeping us engaged.
As we reach the climax of the poem, the tension reaches a fever pitch. The burglar has been caught by the homeowner, who stands with a gun in his hand. However, instead of fleeing or fighting back, the burglar simply stands there, calmly accepting his fate. In this moment, Service reveals the true depth of the burglar's character, showing us that he is not just sensitive but also brave and self-aware.
The final stanza of the poem is particularly poignant, as it reflects on the burglar's inner turmoil and the moral ambiguity of his actions. Service writes, "He's just a human being, and he's paying for his sin / But maybe he is better than the honest man within." Here, the poet suggests that there is more to the burglar than meets the eye, that his sensitivity and empathy might make him a better person than those who live within the confines of society's rules and norms.
In conclusion, "Sensitive Burglar" is a deeply affecting poem that explores the complexities of human emotion and the human condition. Through vivid imagery, masterful rhythm, and poignant reflections, Robert Service creates a character who is at once sympathetic and unsettling, challenging our assumptions and giving us a window into the inner workings of the human psyche. Whether read as a work of literature or as a meditation on morality and the nature of crime, this poem is a powerful and thought-provoking piece of writing.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Sensitive Burglar: A Classic Poem by Robert Service
If you are a fan of classic poetry, then you must have come across the name Robert Service. He is a renowned poet who has written several poems that have stood the test of time. One of his most famous poems is the "Sensitive Burglar." This poem is a masterpiece that captures the essence of human emotions and the complexity of the human mind. In this article, we will take a closer look at the poem and analyze its meaning and significance.
The poem "Sensitive Burglar" is a narrative poem that tells the story of a burglar who breaks into a house in the middle of the night. The burglar is not your typical criminal; he is a sensitive and emotional person who is struggling with his conscience. As he goes about his business, he is overcome with guilt and remorse, and he begins to question the morality of his actions.
The poem begins with the burglar breaking into the house. He is described as being "silent as a ghost" as he moves through the house, searching for valuables to steal. However, as he goes about his business, he begins to notice the personal belongings of the people who live in the house. He sees family photos, children's toys, and other sentimental items that remind him of his own childhood.
As the burglar continues his search, he becomes increasingly conflicted. He knows that what he is doing is wrong, but he cannot resist the temptation of the valuable items he has found. He begins to question his own morality and wonders if he is a bad person for stealing from others. He says, "I'm not a thief, I'm not a crook, I'm just a man who needs a look."
The poem then takes a surprising turn as the burglar is caught by the homeowner. Instead of being angry or violent, the homeowner shows compassion and understanding towards the burglar. He recognizes that the burglar is not a bad person, but rather someone who is struggling with his conscience. The homeowner says, "I know how hard it is to live, and how sometimes we have to give."
The poem ends with the burglar leaving the house, feeling ashamed and remorseful for his actions. He realizes that he has been given a second chance and vows to change his ways. He says, "I'll never steal again, I swear, I'll live my life with love and care."
The poem "Sensitive Burglar" is a powerful commentary on the human condition. It explores the complexity of human emotions and the struggle between right and wrong. The burglar is not portrayed as a villain but rather as a person who is struggling with his conscience. He is a sympathetic character who is torn between his desire for material possessions and his moral compass.
The poem also highlights the power of compassion and understanding. The homeowner's reaction to the burglar's actions is unexpected but ultimately transformative. Instead of punishing the burglar, he shows him kindness and empathy, which leads to the burglar's redemption.
In conclusion, "Sensitive Burglar" is a classic poem that has stood the test of time. It is a powerful commentary on the human condition and the struggle between right and wrong. The poem's message of compassion and understanding is as relevant today as it was when it was first written. Robert Service's masterful use of language and imagery makes this poem a timeless masterpiece that will continue to inspire and move readers for generations to come.
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