The poem "My Papa's Waltz" by Theodore Roethke has been interpreted in different ways by scholars, with some arguing it depicts the father casually playing with his son, while others believe it depicts the father abusing his son. After analyzing the context and language of the poem, it is clear Roethke intends to illustrate nostalgic memories of his father, with imagery suggesting the father was intoxicated and handling the son roughly during a dance. The controversial nature of the poem is resolved when the context and details are carefully examined.