On Being Asked for a War Poem
On Being Asked for a War Poem - meaning Summary
Poet's Silence in Crisis
Yeats argues that in troubled times a poet should remain silent because poetry cannot correct political leaders. The poem contrasts the public sphere of statesmanship with the private pleasures poetry provides—comforting a young woman or an old man. It presents poetry as limited and elective, suited to individual consolation rather than public persuasion, and recommends humility about the poet’s influence in crises.
Read Complete AnalysesI think it better that in times like these A poet's mouth be silent, for in truth We have no gift to set a statesman right; He has had enough of medding who can please A young girl in the indolence of her youth, Or an old man upon a winter's night.
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