Summary:
“On Poetry: A Rhapsody” is a satirical poem written by Jonathan Swift in 1733. In this poem, Swift critiques the state of poetry and poets during his time, mocking the decline in literary standards and the increasing commercialization of poetry. He expresses disdain for court poets, flattery, and the lack of originality, arguing that poetry had become a means for gaining favor rather than a pursuit of truth and artistic excellence.
Swift attacks corrupt politicians, sycophantic writers, and the superficiality of literary culture. He portrays poets as servants of the powerful, writing not for art but for financial rewards. The poem is written in rhymed couplets, using sharp wit, irony, and humor to expose the hypocrisy of both poets and their patrons.
The themes of the poem include literary decline, political corruption, the role of poets in society, and the conflict between artistic integrity and material gain. Swift’s biting critique reflects his broader disillusionment with the state of literature and politics in 18th-century Britain.
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| Question | Answer |
| Poem Name | On Poetry: A Rhapsody |
| Poet Name | Jonathan Swift |
| Year Written | 1733 |
| Main Themes | Literary decline, political corruption, artistic integrity vs. materialism |
| Literary Devices | Satire, irony, humor, rhymed couplets |
| Tone | Mocking, critical, humorous |
| Criticism | Court poets, flattery, lack of originality |
| Swift’s Message | True poetry should be driven by artistic integrity, not by the pursuit of money or power |