Verbatim From Boileau.

This poem engages its readers with themes of justice, conflict, and irony while using a fable-like narrative to deliver its message. The two travelers disputing over an oyster represent individuals or entities in conflict, while Dame Justice, as a personification of the judicial system, serves as the mediator. The poet portrays an ironic tone as the figure of justice, instead of resolving the dispute fairly, self-servingly consumes the object of contention herself.

The poem's structure is rhymed couplets, a traditional poetic form that adds a rhythmic, orderly flow to the narrative. This rhythmic structure contrasts with the chaos of the dispute and the unexpected outcome, enhancing the ironic tone. The poet cleverly uses this common form to highlight the absurdity of the situation and the corruption of the supposedly impartial justice system. The final line, 'Twas a fat oyster--live in peace--adieu,' is particularly biting, underscoring the poem's critique of systems of power that benefit from the conflicts of others. Overall, the poem is a clever, satirical commentary on societal structures and the often self-serving nature of those in power.