Poem Analysis - Epigram To Death Of The Verse Monger

A Scathing Epitaph: Introduction

Alexander Pushkin's "Epigram To Death Of the Verse-Monger" is a short, sharp, and ruthlessly critical dismissal of a deceased poet named Klit. The poem possesses a biting tone, dripping with sarcasm and a complete lack of reverence for the dead. It's a miniature literary assassination, delivered with the precision of a skilled swordsman. The initial pronouncement of Klit's damnation sets the stage for a final, damning wish – that his work be as easily forgotten as his supposed sins.

The Brevity of Judgement: Condemnation and Forgiveness

The poem's primary theme is poetic justice, albeit of a particularly harsh variety. Pushkin suggests that Klit, burdened by his "sins," will be denied "Paradise." This initial judgment swiftly establishes the poem's critical tone. However, the following lines introduce a surprising twist. There is a plea for the Lord to forget Klit's “enterprise,” which can be interpreted as his poetic work. The poem expresses a wish for God to disregard the deceased poet's verse, much like God might forgive his sins. This comparison creates an interesting contrast, equating artistic failure with moral failings.

Equating Bad Verse with Sin: A Damning Parallel

The most striking aspect of the poem is its equating of bad poetry with sin. The "sins" Klit planted are juxtaposed with his "verse." This suggests that, in Pushkin's eyes, Klit's poetic endeavors were not merely aesthetically displeasing but morally reprehensible. It indicates that Pushkin perhaps views the creation of poor art as a kind of offense, worthy of being forgotten entirely, much like sins are forgiven through forgetfulness. The poem's title itself, "Verse-Monger," is derogatory, implying that Klit was more concerned with churning out verse than with crafting meaningful poetry.

Forgetfulness as a Final Judgment: The Power of Erasure

The concluding image – the plea for Klit's verse to be "forgot" – serves as the poem's most potent symbol. Forgetfulness, in this context, isn't merely the natural fading of memory but an active form of judgment. It signifies the ultimate erasure of Klit's legacy, suggesting that his work was so insignificant that it deserves to be completely wiped from existence. This is a far more damning fate than simply being criticized; it's a plea for oblivion, highlighting Pushkin's extreme disdain for Klit's poetic abilities.

A Legacy of Disdain: Conclusion

"Epigram To Death Of the Verse-Monger" is a compact yet devastating critique of artistic mediocrity. Through its sharp wit and biting tone, Pushkin equates poor poetry with sin, ultimately condemning Klit's work to the oblivion of forgetfulness. The poem serves as a powerful reminder of the potential consequences for those who dare to produce art that fails to meet a high standard. While undeniably harsh, it raises questions about the role of criticism and the lasting impact, or lack thereof, of artistic endeavors deemed unworthy of remembrance.