Screw-Guns by Rudyard Kipling (1888)
The narrative follows a group of gunners, who are responsible for operating screw-guns, a type of artillery. The speaker, a member of this group, describes their experiences and the challenges they face while traversing difficult terrains. The gunners are portrayed as skilled and resilient, capable of navigating areas where traditional roads do not exist. They take pride in their work, emphasizing the bond between the gunners and their artillery, which they affectionately refer to as "dear little pets." The poem highlights the camaraderie among the soldiers and their unwavering commitment to their duties. The speaker conveys a sense of adventure and danger, as they encounter various adversaries, including the Naga and Looshai tribes, and the Afreedeeman. The gunners' ability to adapt and overcome obstacles is underscored, showcasing their determination and toughness. The refrain emphasizes the mutual affection between the gunners and their screw-guns, suggesting that the artillery is not just a tool of war but a source of pride and identity for the soldiers. The imagery evokes the harshness of the environment, with references to eagles, rivers, and rugged landscapes, creating a vivid backdrop for their exploits. As the poem progresses, the speaker reflects on the physical demands of their work, contrasting it with the perceived ease of operating field-guns. The gunners are depicted as enduring and capable, with a strong sense of duty that drives them to excel in their roles. The tone is both celebratory and defiant, as they prepare to confront any challenges that arise. Ultimately, the narrative serves as a tribute to the bravery and skill of the gunners, encapsulating the spirit of military life in a challenging and unforgiving landscape. The repeated call for surrender underscores the power and effectiveness of their artillery, reinforcing the idea that resistance is futile against such formidable weaponry. The poem concludes with a sense of inevitability, as the gunners continue their journey, confident in their abilities and the loyalty of their screw-guns.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1888 · Genre: Poetry, Military Fiction, Adventure · 784 words
First lines
Smokin' my pipe on the mountings, sniffin' the mornin' cool, I walks in my old brown gaiters along o' my old brown mule, With seventy gunners be'ind me, an' never a beggar forgets It's only the pick of the Army that handles the dear little pets -- 'Tss! 'Tss! For you all love the screw-guns -- the screw-guns they all love you! So when we call round with a few guns, o' course you will know what to do -- hoo! hoo! Jest send in your Chief an' surrender -- it's worse if you fights or you runs: You can go where you please, you can skid up the trees, but you don't get away from the guns!
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Screw-Guns is listed on Textopian as a poem by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1888 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: Rudyard Kipling
- Date: 1888 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Military Fiction, Adventure, Historical Fiction, Humor
- Length: 784 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and rhyme, characteristic of poetry.
- Military Fiction — The poem centers around military themes, specifically the experiences of soldiers and artillery.
- Adventure — The narrative involves exploration and the challenges faced in rugged terrains, typical of adventure stories.
- Historical Fiction — The context reflects historical military operations, providing a glimpse into the past.
Tags
Rudyard Kipling · Screw-Guns · poetry · military · artillery · colonialism · British Empire · humor · adventure · nature · camaraderie · bravery