A Song of the Pen
A Song of the Pen - meaning Summary
Work as Its Own Reward
Paterson’s poem presents the writer’s craft as a vocation rather than a career. Poets are claimed by a capricious goddess who gives little material reward, yet demands wholehearted service. They accept varied tasks, from epic subjects to light amusements, without choosing them. The poem insists on pride and humility together: despite meagre gain, faithful practice offers its own consolation, and the intrinsic value of work becomes the poet’s saving grace.
Read Complete AnalysesNot for the love of women toil we, we of the craft, Not for the people's praise; Only because our goddess made us her own and laughed, Claiming us all our days, Claiming our best endeavour -- body and heart and brain Given with no reserve -- Niggard is she towards us, granting us little gain: Still, we are proud to serve. Not unto us is given choice of the tasks we try, Gathering grain or chaff; One of her favoured servants toils at an epic high, One, that a child may laugh. Yet if we serve her truly in our appointed place, Freely she doth accord Unto her faithful servants always this saving grace, Work is its own reward!
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