Spoon River Anthology · Chapter
Robert Southey Burke explained
Robert Southey Burke reflects on his disillusionment with A.
What happens
Robert Southey Burke reflects on his disillusionment with A. D. Blood, a man he once idolized and supported politically. He describes how he poured his idealism, devotion, and hopes into Blood, only to discover that Blood was hollow and deceitful. Burke warns others against idealizing and giving their love to any mortal man.
Themes in this chapter
Illusion vs. Reality
Burke's idealization of Blood shatters when he sees the man's true, petty nature.
Love and Betrayal
Burke's intense devotion turns to hatred upon discovering Blood's falseness.
Characters to notice
- Robert Southey Burke
The speaker who recounts his wasted devotion to A. D. Blood.
Key passages
“I spent my money trying to elect you Mayor A. D. Blood.”
I used my own funds to support your campaign for mayor, A. D. Blood.
Burke's financial and emotional investment in Blood's political career.
“And then when I found what you were: That your soul was small And your words were false As your blue-white porcelain teeth, And your cuffs of celluloid, I hated the love I had for you, I hated myself, I hated you For my wasted soul, and wasted youth.”
When I discovered your true character—your petty soul and deceitful words, as artificial as your porcelain teeth and celluloid cuffs—I came to despise the love I once felt, loathing both myself and you for the squandering of my spirit and youth.
Burke's bitter realization of Blood's superficiality and the resulting self-hatred.