Sensitive Burglar

 Selecting in the dining-room
 The silver of his choice,
The burglar heard from chamber gloom
 A female voice.
As cold and bitter as a toad,
 She spat a nasty name,
So even as his swag he stowed
 He blushed for shame.

'You dirty dog!' he heard her say,
 'I sniff your whisky stench.
I bet you've gambled half your pay,
 Or blown it on a wench.
Begone from here, you rakehell boor!
 You shame the human race.
What wife would pillow-share with your
 Disgusting face!'

A tear the tender burglar shed,
 Then indignation rose,
And swiftly striding to her bed
 He said: 'I'm none of those.
I am a connoisseur in crime
 And felonies I plan . . .
But otherwise, believe me I'm
 A GENTLEMAN.'

Form: Ballad Comments

Comments About This Poem

Share your interpretation, favorite passage, or thoughts about this famous poem. Please provide an in-depth and meaningful comment.

  • What do you think the poet was trying to say?
  • Which line had the biggest impact on you?
  • How does this poem relate to modern life?
  • What literary devices did you notice?
No comments have been posted yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace