A Drunken Man's Praise Of Sobriety

By William Butler Yeats

Come swish around, my pretty punk, And keep me dancing still That I may stay a sober man Although I drink my fill. Sobriety is a jewel That I do much adore; And therefore keep me dancing Though drunkards lie and snore. Oh! mind the music, oh! mind the dance! Oh! mind your cheek's pure blush, And I'll have such virtue in my drink As you could want no more.
Written: 1928-01-01

Share & Analyze This Poem

Spread the beauty of poetry or dive deeper into analysis

Analyze This Poem

Discover the literary devices, structure, and deeper meaning

Copy to Clipboard

Save this poem for personal use or sharing offline


Share the Love of Poetry

Poem Details

Date Written: 1928-01-01
Date Published: 1928-01-01
Language: English
Keywords: Humor, Sobriety, Irony, Reflection, Dancing
Source: Public Domain Collection
Publisher: W.B. Yeats
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Analysis & Notes:
A humorous poem by Yeats that uses irony to explore the theme of sobriety through the voice of a drunken man who praises sobriety while reveling in his drink, with a playful focus on dancing and virtue.