Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"The Ghost" is a humorous poem by Richard Harris Barham, an English author and poet. The poem was published as part of Barham's collection of humorous and satirical poems titled "The Ingoldsby Legends" in 1840.

Explanation:

"The Ghost" is a narrative poem that tells the story of a man who is haunted by a ghost. The man initially dismisses the ghost as a trick of the imagination, but as the haunting becomes more intense, he becomes increasingly terrified.

In the poem, the ghost is portrayed as a comical figure, more interested in playing practical jokes than causing harm. The man eventually confronts the ghost and demands that he leave, but the ghost refuses, declaring that he has as much right to haunt the house as the man does.

Barham's language is playful and witty, with puns and wordplay used to create a lighthearted tone. The poem is a parody of Gothic literature, with all of the classic tropes of the genre present, including ghosts, haunted houses, and supernatural powers.

Poetic Elements:

• Form: The poem consists of ten stanzas with varying numbers of lines. The rhyme scheme is ABAB.
• Imagery: Barham uses vivid imagery throughout the poem to create a fantastical and humorous atmosphere. Examples include "the cock crew loud," "the churchyard yew," and "the wraiths that glide."
• Humor: The poem uses humor, with puns and wordplay used to create a lighthearted tone. Examples include "his hair stood on end, like quills of the porcupine," "he felt as if he'd swallowed a church," and "he turned his quid with a knowing air."
• Parody: The poem is a parody of Gothic literature, with all of the classic tropes of the genre present, including ghosts, haunted houses, and supernatural powers.

Summary:

"The Ghost" is a humorous poem that parodies Gothic literature. Barham's language is playful and witty, with puns and wordplay used to create a lighthearted tone. The poem is a reminder of the enduring power of humor to entertain and amuse readers.