Popular Poem Categories:
Occasion & Holiday Poems:
Retaliation Poem
This poem reminds us that when we feel hurt, we can choose respect instead of revenge.
Retaliation speaks to moments we all face, when hurt feelings or unfair words tempt us to strike back. The poem reminds us that putting others down, spreading harm, or seeking revenge never brings lasting peace. Instead, it shows how these actions often leave deeper wounds, both for others and within ourselves.
Through thoughtful lines and honest insight, the poem encourages a better path, one guided by respect, kindness, and self control. It reminds us that choosing love and compassion, even when it is hard, strengthens our character and helps create a more caring and respectful world.
Updated September 21, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
Retaliation
Poet: Arthur Franklin Fuller
He that knocks and runs away
May live to knock some more next day —
But he who slanders in the open
May live to wish he had not spoken.
Some take vengeance through the law,
While others use a mighty paw —
But the meanest bully takes a crack
At helpless folk who can't fight back.
He that gluts his soul with "fun"
Can squander money by the ton.
None mourn nor worry where it went to,
What use the seller's funds are bent to —
Neither feels accountable
To his neighbor, friend or foe —
But the street-man's ways must keep in line
With saints' and sinners' judgment fine.
Sweet Spirit of love and tenderness —
Gentle ministrant of Mercy's dower —
To the selfish thou must e'er remain unknown —
The ruthless crush thee down as flowers full blown;
O hapless hour when on this earth
Some foul animus gave mean birth
To thy disgraceful counterfeit
Which all mankind should scorn and hate.
Ne'er let the day dawn on my sight
That sees me shorn of sense of right —
Nor let me hold by chance, or strength, or stress,
A thing I would not have all men possess;
For envy, thoughtlessness and scorn
Make full many a life forlorn —
Distrust and selfishness remove
All thought of Charity and Love.
Key Reflections In This Poem
-
Retaliation Often Brings Regret
Words and actions made in anger can leave lasting hurt. The poem reminds us to think about the consequences before striking back.
-
Strength Does Not Come From Hurting Others
Taking advantage of someone who cannot defend themselves is not a sign of strength. How we treat others, especially those who are vulnerable, reveals our character.
-
Our Actions Affect Others
When we act without considering the people around us, trust and fairness can quickly disappear. We all have a responsibility to think about how our choices affect others.
-
Love And Mercy Matter
Selfishness and cruelty leave little room for compassion. Choosing kindness and mercy helps us respond in a way that does not add more hurt to the situation.
-
Self-Control Protects Our Character
We cannot always control how others treat us, but we can control our response. Holding on to what we know is right helps us protect our values and our peace.
-
Choose Charity Over Revenge
The closing lines remind us that envy, thoughtlessness, and scorn can push love aside. Choosing charity and respect gives us a better way to deal with conflict.
Popular Pages
Continue with these poems and quotes about kindness, encouragement, helping others, and choosing a positive way forward.
Poems About Life and Love - These poems reflect on life and love, offering gentle reminders of what truly matters in our daily journey.
Quotes About Helping Others - Find uplifting quotes that inspire generosity, compassion, and the simple power of helping someone else.
Encouragement Quotes - These encouragement quotes offer hopeful words to lift your spirit and remind you that brighter days are ahead.
A New Day Poem - This poem celebrates fresh beginnings and encourages us to greet each new day with hope and gratitude.
Famous Poets - Visit this page to explore poems by well known poets whose words continue to inspire and guide readers across generations.
Conclusion
Retaliation leaves us with an important reminder that how we treat others speaks loudly about who we are. When faced with unkindness or unfair treatment, the easier path may seem to be striking back. Yet this poem gently points us toward a wiser response, one that values respect, self control, and compassion. By choosing not to return harm for harm, we protect our own peace and keep our values intact.
As you reflect on this poem, let it encourage you to pause before reacting and to choose kindness whenever possible. Each small decision to act with love rather than revenge helps shape a better day, not only for others but for ourselves as well. In choosing charity and respect, we take a step toward a more thoughtful and caring way of living.
More Famous Poems Of Encouragement to Inspire