Laughing and Sneering
Laughing and Sneering - meaning Summary
Kindness Over Cynical Superiority
Lawson contrasts genial warmth with scornful superiority, preferring companionship with a jovial commoner to the aloof sneer of aristocratic wit. The poem argues that a smile is more powerful and humane than a frown, using the image of Venus calming the sea to show compassion’s calming effect. It champions simple kindness and conviviality over arrogant mockery, valuing emotional connection above social prestige.
Read Complete AnalysesWhat tho’ the world does me ill turns And cares my life environ; I’d sooner laugh with Bobbie Burns Than sneer with titl’d Byron. The smile has always been the best; ’Tis stronger than the frown, sirs: And Venus smiled the waves to rest; She didn’t sneer them down, sirs.
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