Poetry · Chapter
In Warning explained
A satirical poem warning Rudyard Kipling against visiting the American West due to his previous disparaging remarks about San Francisco, Chicago, and American culture.
What happens
A satirical poem warning Rudyard Kipling against visiting the American West due to his previous disparaging remarks about San Francisco, Chicago, and American culture. The speaker lists Kipling's offenses, including insulting local politicians, orators, and the American accent, and suggests that if he comes to shoot, he might find himself the target instead.
Themes in this chapter
Political Satire
The poem satirizes Kipling's criticisms of American politicians, orators, and social customs, using humor and exaggerated threats.
Deception and Self-Deception
Kipling is accused of pretending to meet fictional people and of misrepresenting his experiences, suggesting a theme of deception.
Characters to notice
- Unknown
The speaker of the poem, addressing Rudyard Kipling directly.
Key passages
“They tell us, dear Kipling, you’re coming to shoot In the hills of the wide, wild West.”
We hear you plan to hunt in the American West.
Opening lines establish the premise of Kipling's intended visit.
“For you said San Francisco was meaner than—well, You said it was very small beer And Chicago uncommonly queer.”
You insulted San Francisco and Chicago, calling them insignificant and strange.
Highlights Kipling's previous derogatory remarks about American cities.
“You said you could speak the English tongue, But not the American nose.”
You claimed to understand English but not the American accent.
Criticizes Kipling's comment on American pronunciation.
“Out here when we go to shoot, perhaps Nor beast nor bird we see; So we just let go at the Britisher chaps Who have made remarks too free, And the same surcease to be.”
When we hunt and find no game, we shoot at British men who have spoken too freely, and that puts an end to them.
The poem's threatening conclusion suggests Kipling himself could become the target.