Question

Explain with reference to the context:
“Every virtue requires today
A fancy dress; the cassock is
The priests’ main virtue, the clever
Politician dons a saint’s mean
Apparel.”

Hint:

Reference-to-context answers should clearly include source, situation, and deeper meaning of the lines.

Answer 1

The poet is criticizing modern society where people pretend to be virtuous only outwardly. He highlights the hypocrisy of religious leaders and politicians who wear the mask of morality for personal gain.
Explanation:
The poet suggests that true virtue has disappeared and is replaced by false appearances. Priests and politicians pretend to be moral by wearing symbolic clothes, while lacking genuine honesty and integrity. The lines expose the hollow and artificial nature of modern virtues.