The Libeller's Self-Reproof by Robert Burns
A rebuke warns a slanderous poet that his name will disappear from Fame's records, citing Mansfield's claim that the more truthful a statement is, the more it is a libel. An introductory note questions the rhymes' authenticity.
By Robert Burns · Genre: Satirical Poetry, Epigram · 68 words
First lines
These are rhymes of dubious authenticity. -Lang.
Rash mortal, and slanderous poet, thy name / Shall no longer appear in the records of Fame; / Dost not know that old Mansfield, who writes like the Bible, / Says, the more 'tis a truth, sir, the more 'tis a libel!
Genres
- Satirical Poetry — Four rhyming lines rebuke a slanderous poet and mock the claim that truth increases libel.
- Epigram — The brief verse culminates in a pointed paradox equating greater truth with greater libel.
Tags
libel · slander · truth · poetic fame · satire
What this Textopian page supports
The Libeller's Self-Reproof is listed on Textopian as a poem by Robert Burns, dated Date unknown.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Robert Burns
- Date: Date unknown
- Language: English
- Genres: Satirical Poetry, Epigram
- Length: 68 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
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