Crazy Jane Reproved

By William Butler Yeats

The priest came to reprimand her, For what, no doubt, she knew too well, She took a wand of wild rose-bush, And struck him with a thorn. The priest came in anger, He cursed her once and more; But she just laughed to hear him, And struck him with a thorn. The people came to see it, The women and the men; But she just smiled and struck again, And the priest went running home. When all was done they left her, And Jane went on her way, Singing, "What the priest has spoken, I'll leave it to the day."
Written: 1933-01-01

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Poem Details

Date Written: 1933-01-01
Date Published: 1933-01-01
Language: English
Keywords: Rebellion, Reflection, Religion, Power, Wisdom
Source: Public Domain Collection
Publisher: W.B. Yeats
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Analysis & Notes:
A narrative poem where Crazy Jane is reprimanded by a priest, but she defiantly resists his authority, using a thorn to symbolically strike back, and ultimately leaving the judgment of her actions to time and fate.

Exploring Narrative Poetry

Narrative poetry is a form of poetry that tells a story, often making use of the voices of a narrator and characters as well. Unlike lyric poetry, which focuses on emotions and thoughts, narrative poetry is dedicated to storytelling, weaving tales that captivate readers through plot and character development.


Narrative poems are unique in their ability to combine the depth of storytelling with the expressive qualities of poetry. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Structured Plot: Narrative poems typically have a clear beginning, middle, and end, following a plot that might involve conflict, climax, and resolution, much like a short story or novel.
  • Character Development: Characters in narrative poems are often well-developed, with distinct voices and personalities that drive the story forward.
  • Descriptive Language: The language used in narrative poetry is vivid and descriptive, painting a clear picture of the scenes and events, while also conveying the emotions and atmosphere of the story.

From ancient epics like "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" to more modern narrative poems, this form continues to engage readers by blending the art of storytelling with the beauty and rhythm of poetry.