"A Servant to Servants" is a poem by Robert Frost that explores the theme of social class and the inherent power dynamics that exist within it. The poem is narrated by a domestic servant who reflects on their position within the household and the way that their role has shaped their identity.
The poem begins with the narrator stating that they are "the servant to servants" and that their job is to "keep the house clean." This line immediately establishes the narrator's subservient position within the household and highlights the social hierarchy that exists within it. The narrator is not just a servant, but a servant to servants - a person who serves those who are already in a position of servitude.
The narrator goes on to describe their daily routine, which involves "sweeping the house and washing the dishes" and "making the beds and doing the mending." These tasks are essential to the functioning of the household, yet they are often overlooked and undervalued. The narrator's labor is invisible and taken for granted, as it is assumed that someone else will always be there to perform these tasks.
Despite the grueling nature of their work, the narrator is resigned to their role and does not seem to resent it. In fact, they seem to have a sense of pride in their ability to fulfill their duties and keep the household running smoothly. However, there is a hint of sadness in the poem as well, as the narrator notes that they are "lonely here, and forgotten by the rest." This suggests that the narrator's position as a servant has isolated them from the rest of the household and that they are not fully recognized or appreciated for their contributions.
One of the most striking aspects of "A Servant to Servants" is the way that it reveals the complex and often conflicting emotions that can arise from a life of servitude. On the one hand, the narrator is proud of their ability to perform their duties and maintain their dignity in a challenging role. On the other hand, they are also aware of their own limitations and the fact that they are limited by their social status. This creates a sense of tension within the poem, as the narrator struggles to reconcile their sense of self with the reality of their position in society.
Overall, "A Servant to Servants" is a poignant and thought-provoking poem that offers a glimpse into the life of a domestic servant and the power dynamics that exist within the social hierarchy. It reminds us of the hard work and dedication of those who labor behind the scenes and the ways in which their contributions are often overlooked and undervalued.
