To Certain Poets by Joyce Kilmer
The poem explores the idea that some poets are more worthy of recognition than others, with the speaker expressing admiration for certain poets and a sense of superiority over those who do not share their taste. The poem's tone is one of confidence and assertiveness, with the speaker making clear distinctions between good and bad poetry. The language used is formal and elevated, reflecting the speaker's high opinion of themselves as a poet. Throughout the poem, the speaker emphasizes the importance of skill and craftsmanship in poetry, suggesting that only those who possess these qualities are truly worthy of recognition. This emphasis on technical skill serves to reinforce the speaker's own sense of superiority over other poets. Ultimately, the poem is a celebration of the speaker's own poetic abilities and a dismissal of those who do not meet their standards.
By Joyce Kilmer · First published 1918 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Lyric · 243 words
First lines
Now is the rhymer's honest trade A thing for scornful laughter made.
The merchant's sneer, the clerk's disdain, These are the burden of our pain.
Because of you did this befall, You brought this shame upon us all.
You little poets mincing there With women's hearts and women's hair!
What this Textopian page supports
To Certain Poets is listed on Textopian as a poem by Joyce Kilmer, dated 1918 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: 1918 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Satire, Lyric, Social Commentary, Elegy
- Length: 243 words
- Structure: 1 section, 13 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is primarily a poem, showcasing the author's use of verse, rhythm, and imagery.
- Satire — The poem critiques and mocks certain poets, employing irony and exaggeration to convey disdain.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal feelings and thoughts about the nature of poetry and poets.
- Social Commentary — The work reflects on societal perceptions of poets and the literary profession.
Tags
Poetry Collection · American Literature · Nature Poetry · Symbolism · Imagery · Figurative Language · Free Verse · Modernist Poetry · Romanticism · Sensuality · Eros · Love Poems