There Was a Man with Tongue of Wood
There Was a Man with Tongue of Wood - meaning Summary
Understanding Beyond Performance
The poem depicts a failed singer whose voice is wooden and ineffectual. His attempt to sing is judged "lamentable," yet a single listener perceives the song's intention beneath the crude sound. That understanding satisfies the singer more than technical success. The piece emphasizes empathy and the value of being heard for intent rather than polished performance, suggesting human connection can redeem artistic or communicative shortcomings.
Read Complete AnalysesThere was a man with tongue of wood Who essayed to sing, And in truth it was lamentable. But there was one who heard The clip-clapper of this tongue of wood And knew what the man Wished to sing, And with that the singer was content.
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