Madness by Joyce Kilmer (1908)
The poem explores the theme of madness and its effects on individuals and society. It describes a world where people are driven mad by societal pressures, expectations, and conformity. The speaker argues that this collective madness leads to chaos, destruction, and ultimately, the downfall of civilization. The poem critiques modern society's emphasis on materialism, consumerism, and superficiality, suggesting that these values lead to a kind of mass hysteria. It also touches on the idea that people are often more concerned with appearances than reality, and that this can result in a kind of collective madness. Throughout the poem, the speaker uses imagery and metaphor to convey the sense of chaos and disorder that results from this collective madness. The tone is one of warning and critique, urging readers to consider the consequences of their actions and the values they hold dear. The poem's message is complex and open to interpretation, but at its core, it suggests that true sanity can only be achieved by rejecting the superficialities of modern life and embracing a more authentic, meaningful existence.
By Joyce Kilmer · First published 1908 · Genre: Poetry, Lyric, Philosophical · 192 words
First lines
(For Sara Teasdale)
The lonely farm, the crowded street, The palace and the slum, Give welcome to my silent feet As, bearing gifts, I come.
Last night a beggar crouched alone, A ragged helpless thing; I set him on a moonbeam throne -- To-day he is a king.
Last night a king in orb and crown Held court with splendid cheer; To-day he tears his purple gown And moans and shrieks in fear.
What this Textopian page supports
Madness is listed on Textopian as a poem by Joyce Kilmer, dated 1908 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Joyce Kilmer
- Date: 1908 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Lyric, Philosophical, Social Commentary
- Length: 192 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- In Country Sleep by Dylan Thomas
- Life Were Thy Pains As Are The Pains Of Hell by Edna St Vincent Millay
- A Lament by Oscar Wilde
- As To A Child by Fernando Pessoa
- Song by Dylan Thomas
- Lines Written In Recapitulation by Edna St Vincent Millay
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse, utilizing rhythm and imagery typical of poetic forms.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, focusing on themes of transformation and the human condition.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deeper existential questions about power, identity, and the nature of reality.
- Social Commentary — The poem contrasts different social classes and reflects on societal issues through its imagery.
Tags
Poetry · Psychological · Exploratory · Philosophical · Existential · Stream-of-consciousness · Free Verse · Symbolic · Metaphorical · Imagistic · Emotive · Introspective