Service's poems portray a man's world where women are often discussed but seldom appear. Consequently, Service's peculiar blend of realism and idealism, seen especially in his attitude toward women, should generate some sensitive discussion. What, for example, is Service attempting to portray in "My Madonna," a poem in which a prostitute is painted to resemble Mary, the Mother of God? In another poem, "The Harpy," Service attempts a sympathetic portrait of a twenty-three-year-old prostitute who believes that, in this bitter world, women must "bear the yoke, and serve the will of man." One might ask where Service places responsibility for her situation. Other poems, such as "The Woman and the Angel," are somewhat disturbing for seeming to view women as corrupting influences.

Yet Service reflects a keen moral sensitivity. Have we indeed "outlived the old standards . . . the ancient, outworn, Puritanic tradition of Right and Wrong?"