The Spoilsport

 My familiar ghost again
Comes to see what he can see, 
Critic, son of Conscious Brain, 
Spying on our privacy. 

Slam the window, bolt the door,
Yet he’ll enter in and stay; 
In tomorrow’s book he’ll score 
Indiscretions of today. 

Whispered love and muttered fears, 
How their echoes fly about!
None escape his watchful ears, 
Every sigh might be a shout. 

No kind words nor angry cries 
Turn away this grim spoilsport; 
No fine lady’s pleading eyes,
Neither love, nor hate, nor … port. 

Critic wears no smile of fun, 
Speaks no word of blame nor praise, 
Counts our kisses one by one, 
Notes each gesture, every phrase.

My familiar ghost again 
Stands or squats where suits him best; 
Critic, son of Conscious Brain, 
Listens, watches, takes no rest.

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