Tone in Theodore Rothekes' "My Papa's Waltz"


   In Theodore Roethkes' "My papa's Waltz" the use of key words through out the article changes the impact on the reader. The expectation of a fond childhood memory is converted into a sarcastic impression of a rough childhood. Simple substitution of enforcing words would have altered the vision created by Roethkes in his piece. However, after readying the poem in its entirety we are led to a heavy feeling of discomfort invoked in his recalling of a, maybe, regular occurance in his household. Here the tone is presented, again by key words, which are placed appropriately throughout the piece.

    In each stanza we come across words which reflect a negative image. In his opening stanza "..hung on like death"(3) itself revels some of the glimpse into a rough environment. Most fond memories are described with light, pleasant connotation. Rarely would one compare a moment of joy with death. This comparison is then paired with images of a harsh individual. Such as ".. battered on one knuckle"(10) and "...right ear scraped.."(13) which generate images of wounds or pain. Not often again used to set a pleasant tone. As the reader we visualize the damage to a character in this poem, which only amplifies the unpleasant tone of the piece.