'Funk' by Robert Service


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Rhymes of a Red Cross ManWhen your marrer bone seems 'oller,
And you're glad you ain't no taller,And you're all a-shakin' like you 'ad the chills;
When your skin creeps like a pullet's,
And you're duckin' all the bullets,And you're green as gorgonzola round the gills;
When your legs seem made of jelly,
And you're squeamish in the belly,And you want to turn about and do a bunk:
For Gawd's sake, kid, don't show it!
Don't let your mateys know it --You're just sufferin' from funk, funk, funk.Of course there's no denyin'
That it ain't so easy tryin'To grin and grip your rifle by the butt,
When the 'ole world rips asunder,
And you sees yer pal go under,As a bunch of shrapnel sprays 'im on the nut;
I admit it's 'ard contrivin'
When you 'ears the shells arrivin',To discover you're a bloomin' bit o' spunk;
But, my lad, you've got to do it,
And your God will see you through it,For wot 'E 'ates is funk, funk, funk.So stand up, son; look gritty,
And just 'um a lively ditty,And only be afraid to be afraid;
Just 'old yer rifle steady,
And 'ave yer bay'nit ready,For that's the way good soldier-men is made.
And if you 'as to die,
As it sometimes 'appens, why,Far better die a 'ero than a skunk;
A-doin' of yer bit,
And so -- to 'ell with it,There ain't no bloomin' funk, funk, funk.

Editor 1 Interpretation

Poetry, Funk

Robert Service's "Poetry, Funk" is a whimsical and playful poem that showcases the author's wit and sense of humor. The poem is a commentary on the state of the modern poetry scene, which the author feels has become too self-serious and pretentious. Through the use of clever wordplay and humorous imagery, Service pokes fun at the pompousness of some contemporary poets and celebrates the joy and vitality of poetry that is accessible and relatable to everyday people.

The Beauty of Simplicity

One of the key themes of "Poetry, Funk" is the value of simplicity in poetry. Service argues that the best poetry is that which can be understood and appreciated by anyone, regardless of their level of education or sophistication. He disparages the tendency of some poets to use obscure language and complex metaphors, which he feels only serve to alienate readers and make them feel inferior.

In contrast, Service celebrates the simple and direct language of popular music, which he argues has a universal appeal precisely because it is straightforward and unpretentious. He uses the example of a "funky" tune to illustrate his point, describing how a catchy beat and a few simple lyrics can get people dancing and feeling alive. In this sense, "Poetry, Funk" can be seen as a call to arms for poets to embrace the power of simplicity and accessibility in their work.

The Playfulness of Language

Another key feature of "Poetry, Funk" is the author's playful use of language. Service is known for his whimsical and irreverent style, and this poem is no exception. He uses puns, alliteration, and other wordplay techniques to create a sense of playfulness and lightheartedness throughout the poem.

For example, he contrasts the "funk" of popular music with the "junk" of self-important poets, and he describes the latter as "narcissistic ninnies" who are more concerned with impressing each other than with connecting with readers. This kind of wordplay adds a layer of humor and levity to the poem, while also reinforcing the author's criticisms of the contemporary poetry scene.

The Importance of Connection

Finally, "Poetry, Funk" can be seen as a meditation on the importance of connection in poetry. Service argues that the best poets are those who are able to connect with their readers on a deep and meaningful level, rather than those who use language as a kind of shield to keep people at a distance.

He uses the example of a "funky" tune to illustrate his point, describing how the music can bring people together and create a sense of community and shared experience. In contrast, he describes the language of some contemporary poets as "like a mothball in a woolen sock," a metaphor that suggests a sense of isolation and detachment.

Through this contrast, Service highlights the importance of poetry that is able to touch people's hearts and minds, rather than just impressing them with its cleverness or erudition. Ultimately, "Poetry, Funk" is a celebration of poetry that is accessible, relatable, and able to connect with readers in a profound way.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Poetry, Funk" is a delightful and thought-provoking poem that showcases Robert Service's wit and charm. Through his use of playful language, clever wordplay, and insightful commentary, he offers a critique of the contemporary poetry scene while also celebrating the power of poetry to connect with people on a deep and meaningful level.

Whether you are a lover of poetry or just someone who appreciates a good pun, "Poetry, Funk" is sure to delight and inspire. So put on your dancing shoes and join the party – the world of poetry is waiting for you!

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

Poetry Funk: A Classic Masterpiece by Robert Service

If you're a fan of poetry, then you must have heard of Robert Service, the renowned poet who wrote some of the most memorable poems of the 20th century. His works are known for their simplicity, humor, and relatability, and one of his most famous poems is the Poetry Funk.

The Poetry Funk is a classic masterpiece that captures the essence of writer's block and the struggle to find inspiration. It's a poem that speaks to every writer, artist, and creative person who has ever experienced the frustration of not being able to create something new.

The poem begins with the speaker, who is a poet, feeling stuck and unable to write anything. He describes the feeling as a "funk" that has taken over him, and he can't seem to shake it off. He tries to find inspiration in the world around him, but everything seems dull and lifeless.

The speaker then turns to his muse, hoping that she will provide him with the inspiration he needs. However, she too seems to be in a funk, and she can't help him either. The speaker is left feeling hopeless and defeated, unable to create anything of value.

The poem then takes a turn, and the speaker realizes that the only way to get out of the funk is to write his way out of it. He starts to write, and the words flow out of him effortlessly. He describes the feeling as a "rush" that takes over him, and he can't stop writing.

The poem ends with the speaker feeling renewed and inspired, ready to take on the world once again. He realizes that the funk was just a temporary setback, and he has the power to overcome it.

The Poetry Funk is a poem that speaks to the heart of every creative person. It's a reminder that writer's block is just a temporary setback, and that inspiration can be found in the most unexpected places. It's a poem that encourages us to keep writing, even when we feel like giving up.

Robert Service's use of language in the Poetry Funk is simple yet powerful. He uses everyday language to describe the speaker's feelings, making the poem relatable to everyone. The poem is also full of humor, which adds to its appeal.

The poem's structure is also noteworthy. It's written in free verse, which gives the poem a natural flow and rhythm. The lack of a strict rhyme scheme also adds to the poem's relatability, as it feels like a conversation rather than a formal poem.

In conclusion, the Poetry Funk is a classic masterpiece that captures the essence of writer's block and the struggle to find inspiration. It's a poem that speaks to every creative person who has ever experienced the frustration of not being able to create something new. Robert Service's use of language and structure make the poem relatable and powerful, and it's a reminder that inspiration can be found in the most unexpected places. So, the next time you're feeling stuck, remember the Poetry Funk and keep writing!

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