'Anti-Profanity' by Robert Service
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I do not swear because I am
A sweet and sober guy;
I cannot vent a single damn
However hard I try.
And in viruperative way,
Though I recall it well,
I never, never, never say
A naughty word like hell.
To rouse my wrath you need not try,
I'm milder than a lamb;
However you may rile me I
Refuse to say: Goddam!
In circumstances fury-fraught
My tongue is always civil,
And though you goad me I will not
Consign you to the divvle.
An no, I never, never swear;
Profanity don't pay;
To cuss won't get you anywhere,
(And neither will to pray.)
And so all blasphemy I stem.
When milk of kindness curds:
But though I never utter them -
Gosh! how I know the words.
Editor 1 Interpretation
A Fresh Lens on Anti-Profanity: A Literary Criticism and Interpretation of Robert Service's Poem
Robert Service is a poet who has earned his stripes in the literary world. His works are not only entertaining but also thought-provoking. One of such works is the poem "Anti-Profanity." The poem is a satirical piece that is aimed at discouraging the use of profane words. However, beyond the superficial message of the poem lies a deeper meaning that is worthy of exploration. This literary criticism and interpretation will delve into the meaning and significance of Service's "Anti-Profanity."
Background of the Poem
"Anti-Profanity" was written in 1917 during the First World War. At the time, profanity was a common feature of everyday communication, and the poem was aimed at discouraging the use of such language. The poem was published in Service's collection of poems titled "Rhymes of a Red Cross Man" in the same year it was written.
Style and Structure
The poem is written in Service's signature style of rhyming quatrains. The poem consists of four stanzas, with each stanza having four lines each. The rhyme scheme is ABAB, and the meter is iambic tetrameter. The poem's tone is satirical and humorous, with the use of puns and wordplay to drive home its message.
Analysis of the Poem
In the first stanza, the speaker sets the tone for the rest of the poem by using a humorous metaphor. The speaker likens the use of profanity to a "flu" that has infected society. The metaphor is not only humorous but also effective. It helps to create an image in the mind of the reader of how widespread the use of profanity has become.
The second stanza continues the metaphor by using imagery to describe the effects of the "flu." The speaker describes how the "flu" has caused society to become "cursing mad." The use of the word "mad" is significant as it suggests that the use of profanity is not only prevalent but also irrational. The speaker goes on to say that the "flu" has caused people to use profanity mindlessly, without any regard for the consequences.
The third stanza is where the poem takes a turn. The speaker introduces a new metaphor, likening the use of profanity to "cancer." The use of the word "cancer" is significant as it suggests that the use of profanity is not only prevalent but also dangerous. The speaker goes on to describe how the "cancer" has spread from the "head" to the "heart" of society. This suggests that the use of profanity has not only become widespread but has also become ingrained in society.
The fourth stanza is where the poem delivers its final blow. The speaker introduces the notion that the use of profanity is a sign of weakness. The speaker suggests that using profanity is a way of compensating for a lack of intelligence or creativity. The use of the word "feeble" is significant as it suggests that using profanity is not only irrational but also pathetic.
Significance of the Poem
"Anti-Profanity" is a satirical piece that is aimed at discouraging the use of profanity. However, beyond the superficial meaning of the poem lies a deeper message. The poem can be interpreted as a critique of society's values. The poem suggests that society has become so obsessed with materialism and superficiality that it has lost touch with its moral compass. The use of profanity is a symptom of this larger problem.
The poem can also be interpreted as a critique of language itself. Language is a powerful tool, and its misuse can have dire consequences. The poem suggests that the use of profanity is not only irrational but also dangerous. The use of profanity can cause harm to oneself and others.
Finally, the poem can be interpreted as a call to action. The poem suggests that society needs to reevaluate its values and priorities. It suggests that society needs to focus on what really matters, such as morality and empathy, rather than superficiality and materialism.
Conclusion
"Anti-Profanity" is a satirical piece that is aimed at discouraging the use of profanity. However, beyond the superficial meaning of the poem lies a deeper message. The poem can be interpreted as a critique of society's values, a critique of language, and a call to action. The poem's use of metaphors, wordplay, and humor is effective in delivering its message. The poem is still relevant today, and its message is one that is worth heeding.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Anti-Profanity: A Poem That Resonates Even Today
Robert Service, the renowned poet, has left behind a legacy of poems that have stood the test of time. One such poem is Anti-Profanity, which is a powerful and thought-provoking piece that speaks to the human condition. The poem is a call to action, urging people to refrain from using profanity and instead, use language that is respectful and dignified. In this article, we will delve deeper into the poem and analyze its themes, structure, and relevance in today's world.
The poem begins with a powerful opening line, "Oh, I do not love to swear." This line sets the tone for the rest of the poem, which is a passionate plea to people to stop using profanity. The speaker goes on to explain that he does not use profanity because it is a sign of weakness. He believes that people who use profanity are unable to express themselves in a more articulate and intelligent manner. This sentiment is echoed in the lines, "For it is cowardly to curse, / And cruel to wish men ill."
The poem then takes a more philosophical turn, as the speaker reflects on the power of language. He believes that words have the power to shape our thoughts and actions. He states, "Words are living things, / And careless talk is murder." This line is particularly poignant, as it highlights the fact that our words have consequences. The speaker is urging people to be mindful of the words they use, as they have the power to hurt or heal.
The poem then takes a more personal turn, as the speaker reflects on his own experiences with profanity. He admits that he has used profanity in the past, but has since realized the error of his ways. He states, "I've been guilty, I confess, / But I'm striving to be better." This admission of guilt and desire for self-improvement is a powerful message that resonates with readers even today.
The poem then takes a more practical turn, as the speaker offers advice on how to avoid using profanity. He suggests that people should use alternative words and phrases, such as "darn" or "gosh." While these may seem like small changes, they can have a significant impact on the way we communicate with others. By using more respectful language, we can create a more positive and uplifting environment.
The structure of the poem is also worth noting. It is written in quatrains, with each stanza consisting of four lines. This structure gives the poem a sense of rhythm and flow, which makes it easier to read and understand. The use of rhyme also adds to the poem's musicality, making it a joy to read aloud.
In terms of relevance, Anti-Profanity is a poem that is just as relevant today as it was when it was first written. In fact, it may be even more relevant today, given the prevalence of profanity in popular culture. From music to movies to social media, profanity seems to be everywhere. This makes the message of the poem all the more important. It reminds us that we have a choice in the words we use, and that we should strive to use language that is respectful and dignified.
In conclusion, Anti-Profanity is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that speaks to the human condition. It is a call to action, urging people to refrain from using profanity and instead, use language that is respectful and dignified. The poem's themes of self-improvement, the power of language, and personal responsibility are just as relevant today as they were when the poem was first written. It is a testament to Robert Service's skill as a poet that his words continue to resonate with readers even today. So, the next time you feel the urge to use profanity, remember the words of Anti-Profanity and choose your words carefully.
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