We also see lines like these that point out jealousy between peers: "What poet would not grieve to see / His Brethren write as well as he? (lines31-2). So basically, Swift is saying that we're all extremely self-centred and narcissistic on some level.
Now, back to the verse that I giggled at. Given the subject of satire that has consumed me of late, i couldn't help but find this line interesting. So, let's look at these lines closely through the colorful lens of satire. Now, we know that satire uses irony, whit, and sometimes sarcasm to expose humanity’s vices, giving impetus to change through ridicule, but there are also different types of satire. two main types are Horatian and Juvenalian. Now Horatian satire pokes fun at human foibles with a witty or even indulgent tone (also described as gentle, urbane, smiling), while Juvenalian satire denounces human vice in solemn tones (also described as bitter, biting, angry).
Given what we know, then, about satire, it is interesting that Swift chooses to describe his writing as “biting” when his verses are so clearly written in a Horatian style (Methinks your bark is far better than your bite, Dr. Swift). That he would attribute to himself the same foibles he is critiquing/mocking is a smart move because it more readily gives impetus to change. In other words, people who read these verses won’t think he’s a “holier-than-thou” type on a podium looking down upon humanity (No doubt the humor helps in that respect, as well).
I think that what makes this piece so effective as a satire is its humorous, light-hearted accessibility. There’s kind of sweetness to that “we’re all in this together” mentality prevalent throughout much of Swift’s verses. Sure, its hyperbolic, but there’s a lot of truth in it, as well. The truth is always easier to swallow with a healthy dose of laughter, and a good glass of wine as far as I could tell, Swift didn’t mention that he had a problem with drinking, so here’s to ridding oneself of some vices, and celebrating a few more.
Cheers to you, Dr. Swift.
Your post makes me wonder whether Swift might have used the word "biting" satirically. Or if perhaps he's referring to some of his other writings.
ReplyDeleteHere's what Swift has to say about his feelings toward his fellow (hu)mans (it's from a letter he wrote to Pope):
I have ever hated all nations, professions, and communities, and all my love is toward individuals: for instance, I hate the tribe of lawyers, but I love Counsellor Such-a-one and Judge Such-a-one: so with physicians – I will not speak of my own trade – soldiers, English, Scotch, French, and the rest. But principally I hate and detest that animal called man, although I heartily love John, Peter, Thomas, and so forth. This is the system upon which I have governed myself many years, but do not tell, and so I shall go on till I have done with them. I have got materials toward a treatise, proving the falsity of that definition animal rationale, and to show it would be only rationis capax. Upon this great foundation of misanthropy, though not in Timon’s manner, the whole building of my Travels is erected; and I never will have peace of mind till all honest men are of my opinion. By consequence you are to embrace it immediately, and procure that all who deserve my esteem may do so too. The matter is so clear that it will admit of no dispute; nay, I will hold a hundred pounds that you and I agree in the point.