avatarDaphne Ayo

Summary

The poem "R.S.V.P to Hell" presents a defiant and unyielding speaker who is unafraid of their impending descent into Hell, confidently asserting their readiness to face its torments.

Abstract

"R.S.V.P to Hell" is a poem that depicts a speaker's fearless anticipation of their journey to Hell. The speaker seems to challenge Hell's lord, indicating that their arrival is imminent and that they are not an easy target for suffering. They compare the intensity of Hell's torments to the scorching heat of the sun, reminiscent of the fate of Icarus. The speaker is resolute in meeting their fate on their own terms, neither rushing nor delaying their arrival. They savor the idea of pain, likening it to the enjoyment of fine dining and wine. The poem concludes with the speaker acknowledging their current existence as a prelude to the Hell that awaits, and they express a commitment to joining Hell's lord in due time, after finishing their business on Earth.

Opinions

  • The speaker views the agonies of Hell with a sense of familiarity and even relish, suggesting that they are already accustomed to suffering.
  • There is a tone of bravado and defiance in the speaker's message to Hell's lord, implying that they see themselves as formidable and resilient.
  • The poem conveys a sense of dark humor, as the speaker likens the experience of Hell to enjoying a steak and wine, indicating a nonchalant attitude towards the traditional concept of Hell as a place of punishment.
  • The speaker's reference to Icarus hints at a hubristic comparison, positioning themselves as someone who, like Icarus, has flown too close to the sun but remains undeterred by the consequences.
  • The poem suggests a critique of the conventional idea of Hell, presenting the speaker as someone who is not intimidated by its horrors and is prepared to face it with a sense of agency and self-possession.

POETRY ON MEDIUM

R.S.V.P to Hell

From Hell to Hell

Photo by Jr Korpa on Unsplash

On your ascent to the place I’m bound, Tell its lord he won’t have to wait long, Tell him I’ll join him soon.

I hope the banquet of screams is as I have heard,

I hope the platter will rival the one I’m served here.

Tell him that he better sharpen his tools, Better still, he should, on bended knees, pray For he ought to know; a forewarning is only fair, I’m no easy prey.

Tell him not to fret

I am well acquainted with my final destination;

in the scourging heat of this sun;

the same one as Icarus’ nemesis.

Tell him I’ll turn in my assignment when it’s due,

I’ll mark myself present when he calls the register, It won’t be early It won’t be late; I won’t tarry But I won’t hurry either.

Tell him I’ve had a lot of practice Exactly why he’d have to be twice the devil he is,

For pain is meant to be savoured, Like steak: medium-rare Like wine: blood red!

I’ll join him pronto, I just have to finish up here: Hell, part one.

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