As the poem unravels it's self even more we find out that Robin was not appreciated at all "I'm not playing ball boy any longer" (line 14) this shows us that Batman treated Robin like more of a drudger than a friendly partner. This also shows us that Robin does not want to serve Batman any more.
By the end of the poem the audience can see Batman belittled and all alone, cooking an unappealing meal for himself "chicken giblets in the pressure cooker" (line 21), with "next to nothing" (line 22) in the house to eat. This applies to us that without Robin around, he cannot manage by himself. "punching the palm of your hand" (line 23) He is shown to be very anxious, worried and eager, with boredom, unable to do anything.
It is ironic that Robin calls Batman "baby" (in the final line,) because although it is a term of endearment, he uses it to belittle Batman. Robin the kid has grown up while Batman, the super hero, has diminished to a baby. The phrase boy wonder now has a new meaning, because Robin has now managed to break free of his idol.
In the end, Robin ends up stronger and more mature, than Batman.
The way Armatige uses his language in this poem makes the audience hold it's attention.
The title does not tell us anything about Batman and Robin - it's only when we begin to read the poem that the identity of the 'kid' becomes clear. However, if we go back to the title having read the poem, it may remind us of other young people who are caught up in the "shadow" (line 20) of someone they admire, and their need to forge their own identity.
In the poem you can see that every line ends with -er "order, wander, yonder". That got me thinking about the famous Batman theme tune: Er er er er, er er er er, er er er er, er er er er, Batman! It might be that Armitage is mimicking the theme tune through his rhyme scheme.
Armitage also uses very long sentences: there are only 5 in the whole poem. This adds pace to the reading, as we are only allowed short pauses for breath, and helps to convey the energy that Robin has now he is free of Batman.
The phrase "you without a shadow " (line 20)-Batman always had Robin close by him, like a shadow, but Robin also felt as insignificant as a shadow. Now that the shadow is gone, Batman seems almost unreal - only ghosts leave no shadows. Which can makes us ponder more deeply into the relationship of Batman and Robin.
The poem could be read in a number of ways showing the emotions of Robin throughout the poem. Here are some examples:
The poem could be read in a bitter way, suggesting Robin is angry that Batman prevented him from growing up for so long.
The poem could be read in a thoughtful way, suggesting that Robin is reflecting on his experiences with Batman.
Or triumphantly, showing Robin's delight that he is free of Batman at last.
