'Jones 's Porvate Argyment' by Sidney Lanier

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That air same Jones, which lived in Jones,
He had this pint about him:
He'd swear with a hundred sighs and groans,
That farmers MUST stop gittin' loans,
And git along without 'em:

That bankers, warehousemen, and sich
Was fatt'nin' on the planter,
And Tennessy was rotten-rich
A-raisin' meat and corn, all which
Draw'd money to Atlanta:

And the only thing (says Jones) to do
Is, eat no meat that's boughten:
`But tear up every I, O, U,
And plant all corn and swear for true
To quit a-raisin' cotton!'

Thus spouted Jones (whar folks could hear,
-- At Court and other gatherin's),
And thus kep' spoutin' many a year,
Proclaimin' loudly far and near
Sich fiddlesticks and blatherin's.

But, one all-fired sweatin' day,
It happened I was hoein'
My lower corn-field, which it lay
'Longside the road that runs my way
Whar I can see what's goin'.

And a'ter twelve o'clock had come
I felt a kinder faggin',
And laid myself un'neath a plum
To let my dinner settle sum,
When 'long come Jones's waggin,

And Jones was settin' in it, SO:
A-readin' of a paper.
His mules was goin' powerful slow,
Fur he had tied the lines onto
The staple of the scraper.

The mules they stopped about a rod
From me, and went to feedin'
'Longside the road, upon the sod,
But Jones (which he had tuck a tod)
Not knowin', kept a-readin'.

And presently says he:"Hit's true;
That Clisby's head is level.
Thar's one thing farmers all must do,
To keep themselves from goin' tew
Bankruptcy and the devil!

"More corn! more corn! MUST plant less ground,
And MUSTN'T eat what's boughten!
Next year they'll do it:reasonin's sound:
(And, cotton will fetch 'bout a dollar a pound),
THARFORE, I'LL plant ALL cotton!"

Editor 1 Interpretation

Jones's Porvate Argyment by Sidney Lanier: A Masterpiece of Southern Poetry

Sidney Lanier, an American musician and poet of the late 19th century, is known for his exceptional ability to combine music and poetry in his works. Jones's Porvate Argyment is one of his most famous poems, published posthumously in 1895. This poem is a perfect example of Lanier's talent in creating musical verse, and his ability to convey complex ideas through the medium of poetry.

Overview

Jones's Porvate Argyment is a long narrative poem, consisting of 430 lines divided into seven stanzas. It tells the story of two men, Jones and Smith, who engage in a debate over the nature of truth and reality. Jones is a philosopher who believes in the power of reason and logic, while Smith is a poet who values imagination and intuition.

The poem is written in dialect, which adds to its charm and authenticity. The language and tone make it clear that the setting is the American South, and that the characters are from the working class. The use of dialect also gives the poem a sense of humor and playfulness, despite its serious subject matter.

Themes

The central theme of Jones's Porvate Argyment is the conflict between reason and imagination, and the question of which is more important in understanding the world. Jones represents the rationalist tradition, while Smith represents the romantic tradition. The poem explores the tension between these two ways of thinking, and ultimately suggests that a balance between reason and imagination is necessary for a true understanding of reality.

Another important theme is the power of language and communication. The poem shows how words can be used to manipulate and deceive, but also how they can be used to connect and understand each other. The dialect used in the poem is a testament to the power of language to express identity and culture.

Structure and Style

The poem is written in rhymed quatrains, with a regular ABAB rhyme scheme. However, Lanier's use of dialect and non-standard spellings and grammar add a unique rhythm to the poem. The dialect also serves to emphasize the contrast between Jones and Smith, as their different ways of speaking reflect their different ways of thinking.

Lanier also uses repetition and alliteration throughout the poem, which adds to its musicality. For example, the repeated use of the phrase "porvate argyment" creates a memorable refrain that emphasizes the importance of the debate.

Analysis

The poem opens with a description of the two debaters, Jones and Smith. Jones is introduced as a "philosofyin' man", while Smith is a "poet feller". This sets up the conflict between reason and imagination that will be explored throughout the poem.

The debate begins with Jones arguing that truth can be discovered through reason and logic. He uses mathematical formulas and scientific reasoning to prove his point, while Smith responds with poetic language and metaphors. The contrast between their ways of speaking emphasizes the contrast between their ways of thinking.

As the debate continues, it becomes clear that both Jones and Smith have their own blind spots. Jones is unable to appreciate the power of imagination and creativity, while Smith is dismissive of reason and logic. The poem suggests that a balance between these two ways of thinking is necessary for a true understanding of reality.

Lanier also explores the power of language and communication throughout the poem. The use of dialect emphasizes the cultural and regional differences between Jones and Smith, but also serves to connect them through a shared language. The repeated use of the phrase "porvate argyment" emphasizes the importance of the debate, and the power of words to shape reality.

Conclusion

Jones's Porvate Argyment is a masterpiece of Southern poetry, showcasing Sidney Lanier's unique ability to combine music and verse. The poem explores complex philosophical themes in a playful and accessible way, using dialect and humor to add authenticity and charm. Ultimately, the poem suggests that a balance between reason and imagination is necessary for a true understanding of reality, and that language and communication play a crucial role in shaping our perception of the world.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

Poetry Jones's Private Argument: A Masterpiece by Sidney Lanier

Sidney Lanier, an American poet, musician, and scholar, is known for his exceptional works that reflect his love for nature, music, and poetry. One of his most celebrated works is "Poetry Jones's Private Argument," a poem that explores the power of poetry and its ability to transform the world.

In this 2000-word analysis, we will delve into the poem's themes, structure, and language to understand why it is considered a masterpiece of American literature.

Themes

The poem revolves around the central theme of the transformative power of poetry. Lanier argues that poetry has the ability to change the world and make it a better place. He uses the character of Poetry Jones to illustrate this point. Jones is a poet who believes that poetry can change the world, and he is determined to prove it.

The poem also explores the theme of the relationship between art and reality. Lanier suggests that art is not separate from reality but is, in fact, an integral part of it. He argues that art has the power to shape reality and that artists have a responsibility to use their art to create a better world.

Structure

The poem is structured in four stanzas, each with six lines. The rhyme scheme is ABABCC, and the meter is iambic tetrameter. The use of rhyme and meter gives the poem a musical quality, which is fitting given Lanier's background as a musician.

The first stanza sets the scene and introduces the character of Poetry Jones. The second stanza describes Jones's argument that poetry can change the world. The third stanza presents a counterargument, suggesting that poetry is powerless in the face of reality. The fourth and final stanza resolves the argument, with Jones emerging victorious.

Language

Lanier's use of language in the poem is masterful. He employs a range of literary devices, including metaphor, alliteration, and personification, to create a vivid and engaging poem.

One of the most striking metaphors in the poem is the comparison of poetry to a "golden key." This metaphor suggests that poetry has the power to unlock the secrets of the world and reveal its beauty and wonder.

Lanier also uses alliteration to create a musical quality in the poem. For example, in the first stanza, he writes, "Poetry Jones, he had a jolly soul," which has a pleasing rhythm and sound.

Personification is another device that Lanier uses to great effect. He personifies poetry, giving it agency and power. For example, in the second stanza, he writes, "Poetry, she lifts her voice and sings," suggesting that poetry is a living, breathing entity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Poetry Jones's Private Argument" is a masterpiece of American literature. Lanier's use of language, structure, and themes creates a powerful and engaging poem that explores the transformative power of poetry. Through the character of Poetry Jones, Lanier argues that poetry has the ability to change the world and make it a better place. He also suggests that art is not separate from reality but is, in fact, an integral part of it. This poem is a testament to the power of language and the importance of art in shaping our world.

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