# Another on Fame explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by John Keats.

## What happens

The speaker personifies Fame as a capricious and elusive figure, comparing her to a wayward girl and a Gipsy who scorns those who pursue her too eagerly but rewards those who are indifferent. The poem advises artists and poets to scorn her in return and walk away, suggesting that only then might she follow them.

## Themes in this chapter

### Dreams and Escape

The poem explores the elusive nature of fame, suggesting that detachment and indifference are the keys to attaining it, akin to a dream that flees when pursued.

### Social Critique and Mortality

Fame is critiqued as a fickle and deceptive force, likened to a Gipsy and a Jilt, highlighting the vanity and futility of seeking public acclaim.

## Key lines

> Fame, like a wayward girl, will still be coy To those who woo her with too slavish knees, But makes surrender to some thoughtless boy, And dotes the more upon a heart at ease;

Fame acts like a capricious young woman: she is shy and resistant to those who desperately pursue her, but she gives in easily to someone who is carefree and unconcerned, and she cherishes a relaxed heart.

_The opening lines establish the central metaphor of Fame as a coy and unpredictable lover._

> She is a Gipsy,⁠—will not speak to those Who have not learnt to be content without her;

Fame is like a Gypsy: she refuses to talk to anyone who hasn't learned to be happy without her.

_Fame is compared to a wandering Gypsy, emphasizing her elusive and untrustworthy nature._

> Ye lovesick Bards! repay her scorn for scorn; Ye Artists lovelorn! madmen that ye are! Make your best bow to her and bid adieu, Then, if she likes it, she will follow you.

You lovesick poets! Return her disdain with your own disdain; you artists who are heartsick from love, you fools! Bow politely to her and say goodbye, and then, if she pleases, she will chase after you.

_The speaker advises artists to reject Fame in order to attract her, turning the tables on her fickle behavior._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_14_se/chapters/another-on-fame
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_14_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_14_se/chapters