The poem depicts a trained bear performing on cobblestones, enduring pain and discomfort for the entertainment of a crowd. Grass blades grow between the stones, reflecting sunlight and creating a vibrant backdrop. Despite the bear's suffering—evidenced by the ring in his nose and the sharp stick used by the keeper to prod him—the bear continues to dance, driven by the need to please the audience. The spectators, including boys and young women, are captivated by the bear's movements, oblivious to its fatigue and distress. The juxtaposition of the bear's struggle against the joyful reactions of the crowd highlights themes of exploitation and the cost of entertainment. The imagery of the bear's wobbling legs and aching back contrasts sharply with the delight of the onlookers, emphasizing the disconnect between the performer and the audience. The poem ultimately serves as a commentary on the nature of performance, suffering, and the often-unseen sacrifices made for the sake of entertainment.
By D.H. Lawrence · First published 1932 · Genre: Fiction, Children's Literature, Adventure