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.
MCQs:
- Who wrote On Poetry: A Rhapsody?
A) Alexander Pope
B) Jonathan Swift
C) Samuel Johnson
D) John Dryden
Answer: B) Jonathan Swift - What is the main subject of the poem?
A) The beauty of nature
B) The declining quality of poetry and poets
C) The history of British literature
D) A love story between two poets
Answer: B) The declining quality of poetry and poets - What literary device is primarily used in the poem?
A) Romantic symbolism
B) Satire and irony
C) Metaphysical conceit
D) Epic storytelling
Answer: B) Satire and irony
On Poetry A Rhapsody - How does Swift portray poets in the poem?
A) As noble visionaries
B) As servants to the rich and powerful
C) As warriors of truth
D) As religious figures
Answer: B) As servants to the rich and powerful - What does Swift criticize about poets of his time?
A) Their devotion to religious themes
B) Their reliance on flattery and courtly favor
C) Their excessive use of metaphors
D) Their deep philosophical insights
Answer: B) Their reliance on flattery and courtly favor - What is the tone of the poem?
A) Serious and tragic
B) Humorous and mocking
C) Joyful and celebratory
D) Mysterious and suspenseful
Answer: B) Humorous and mocking - Which of the following is NOT a theme of the poem?
A) The commercialization of poetry
B) Political corruption
C) The supernatural world
D) The decline of literary quality
Answer: C) The supernatural world - Why does Swift believe poetry has lost its value?
A) Poets prioritize money and fame over artistic truth
B) Poets focus too much on religion
C) Poetry has become too difficult to understand
D) People no longer appreciate poetry
Answer: A) Poets prioritize money and fame over artistic truth - What poetic form does Swift use in the poem?
A) Free verse
B) Blank verse
C) Rhymed couplets
D) Sonnet form
Answer: C) Rhymed couplets - What does Swift suggest about the relationship between poets and politicians?
A) Poets are independent and challenge authority
B) Poets rely on politicians for financial gain and approval
C) Poets are more powerful than politicians
D) Poets ignore politics completely
Answer: B) Poets rely on politicians for financial gain and approval
| 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 |