The Laughing Man

Author: Bertolt Brecht

The laughing man is in the street,
His laughter echoes in the night.

He laughs at the world,
And all that it contains.

The laughing man is in the street,
His laughter echoes in the night.

He laughs at the rich,
And all that they possess.

The laughing man is in the street,
His laughter echoes in the night.

He laughs at the poor,
And all that they endure.

The laughing man is in the street,
His laughter echoes in the night.

He laughs at himself,
And all that he has lost.
Send via Email Share via WhatsApp Share on X

Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written: 1930-01-01

Date Published: 1930-01-01

Language: German

Keywords: Laughter, Society, Irony, Reflection, Humanity

Source: Selected Poems

Publisher: Suhrkamp Verlag

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: A poem that depicts a man laughing at the absurdities and injustices of the world, as well as at his own losses, highlighting the irony and complexity of human existence.

Exploring Lyric Poetry

Lyric poetry is a powerful and intimate form of expression, characterized by its focus on the personal emotions and thoughts of the poet. Often musical in nature, lyric poems resonate with readers through their vivid language and rhythmic flow, capturing moments of intense feeling.

Here are some key characteristics that define lyric poetry:

  • Expressive Language: Lyric poems use rich and evocative language to convey deep emotions, often painting a vivid picture of the poet's inner world.
  • Personal Perspective: Typically written in the first person, these poems offer a window into the poet's personal experiences, thoughts, and reflections.
  • Musicality: Lyric poems often feature a rhythmic structure, with meter and rhyme that give them a song-like quality, enhancing the emotional impact.

From ancient odes to contemporary free verse, lyric poetry remains a beloved and enduring form, celebrated for its ability to articulate the nuances of human emotion in a way that resonates deeply with readers.