3 Significant Invective Poems

Invective poetry is a genre characterized by vehement accusation, denunciation, or verbal attack against a person, institution, or concept.

Rooted in ancient rhetorical traditions, invective poetry often uses strong language, direct criticism, and satirical undertones to express the poet’s ire or condemnation.

Its subject matter can range from personal grievances to broader societal or political issues.

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Farewell, Ungrateful Traitor!

by John Dryden

‘Farewell, Ungrateful Traitor!’ by John Dryden swears off men and relationships. The speaker asserts that men are incapable of being truthful or loving as much as women.

This type of poem strongly criticizes or attacks someone, which is evident here as the poet expresses anger and disappointment towards the person who has betrayed him. The poem uses sharp language and emotional tone to convey these sentiments clearly.

Farewell ungrateful traitor,

Farewell my perjured swain,

Let never injured creature

Believe a man again.

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If We Must Die

by Claude McKay

‘If We Must Die’ by Claude McKay powerfully encourages the reader to stand up for and with the Black community. One should show strength in the face of discrimination, he says.

This poem could be seen as an invective as it is highly critical of those who oppress the people McKay is addressing in the poem. They are compared to dogs and monsters and their actions are criticised while the actions of McKay's people are shown as honourable and brave.

If we must die—let it not be like hogs

Hunted and penned in an inglorious spot,

While round us bark the mad and hungry dogs,

Making their mock at our accursed lot.

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Black Art

by Amiri Baraka

A fusion of art and activism, ‘Black Art’ is a desperate call in passionate attire for an unwavering zeal for the empowerment of the black community.

With its forceful and provocative nature, 'Black Art' can be classified as invective poetry to some extent. It includes a scathing criticism of societal rules as well as corrupt individuals. The poem uses a harsh, hostile tone and religious stereotypes with rage and fury. This aggressive and fiery tone distinguishes Baraka as a controversial figure of his day.

Poems are bullshit unless they are

Teeth or trees or lemons piled

On a step. Or black ladies dying

Of men leaving nickel hearts

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3 Significant Invective Poems

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3 Significant Invective Poems

Farewell, Ungrateful Traitor!

by John Dryden

If We Must Die

by Claude McKay

Black Art

by Amiri Baraka

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