'Workhouse Clock' Summary

'Workhouse Clock' is a harrowing yet captivating poem that provides a glimpse into the bleak existence of those confined within the walls of a Victorian workhouse. Through the lens of a clock's relentless ticking, Hood vividly depicts the monotony and despair that permeate every moment within the institution. The poem follows the daily routine of the inmates, from the early morning rise to the somber evening hours, highlighting the physical and emotional toll of their labor. Children, particularly, are shown to be victims of the system, forced to endure harsh conditions and deprived of their innocence. Hood's language is both stark and evocative, employing vivid imagery to depict the stark reality of the workhouse. His use of satire, though tinged with a somber tone, serves as a potent indictment of the social injustices prevalent in his time. 'Workhouse Clock' is not merely a poetic lament; it serves as a powerful testament to the enduring human spirit, the resilience of those who persevere in the face of adversity, and the ever-present need for social change.