Cloony the Clown

1. Explain the irony in this poem.
When Cloony tries his best to amuse the audience, the audience get bored and depressed. Therefore, Cloony is unable to earn money simply because he fails at his job. Cloony himself begins to feel down and depressed, and he tries to tell the audience about his woes and troubles. However, upon finishing his tale, the audience breaks out in hysterical laughter. Cloony, feeling even worse, walks away and cries.

2. Does Shel Silverstein manage to convey some harsh realities in this poem?
Yes. Nowadays, when people try to tell others about their own troubles, they rarely receive sympathy or pity and instead, are ridiculed by the other party. Even when they make mistakes, they are jeered at by others. In conclusion, a majority of people in society are sadistic and delight in the misfortune of others.

3. Which poetic devices has the poet used to effectively convey his message?
The poet uses a rhyming pattern throughout the poem to convey intense emotions such as sadness and amusement. This leaves a deeper impression in the readers' minds and also amplifies the emotions described and felt in the poem. He also uses irony to add some dark humour into the poem.