Poem Analysis - Any Other Time

Introduction: A Humorous Look at Human Procrastination

Banjo Paterson's "Any Other Time" is a witty and cynical observation of human nature, specifically our tendency to postpone things, make excuses, and generally avoid confronting the present moment. The poem's tone is initially lighthearted and humorous, using everyday scenarios to illustrate this common failing. However, it gradually shifts to a more somber and reflective mood as it delves into deeper aspects of life, culminating in a consideration of mortality. This shift highlights the pervasive nature of procrastination, suggesting it’s not just about minor inconveniences but fundamental life choices.

The Theme of Procrastination and Avoidance

The central theme of the poem is, quite obviously, procrastination. Paterson explores this through a series of vignettes where characters defer action or commitment to an unspecified "any other time." This is evident in scenarios ranging from a golf game ("All of us play our very best game—/Any other time"), to lending money ("Lend you a fiver! I’d lend you two,/But I’m overdrawn and my bills are due"), to social invitations ("Not to-night, for we’re twenty-nine"). In each case, the phrase "Any other time" serves as a convenient excuse, a way to avoid the immediate demands and responsibilities of life. This avoidance isn't necessarily malicious; it's presented as a deeply ingrained human habit.

The Illusion of Future Potential

Another prominent theme is the illusion of future potential and self-improvement. The poem suggests that we often deceive ourselves into believing we will be better, more capable, or more willing at some point in the future. The lines "Most of us mean to be better men—/Any other time:/Regular upright characters then—/Any other time" perfectly capture this sentiment. It’s a comforting thought that we can always improve tomorrow, which allows us to excuse our current shortcomings. However, the poem subtly undermines this notion, implying that "any other time" may never actually arrive. This highlights the gap between intention and action, revealing a common human flaw.

The Inevitability of Mortality

The final stanza introduces the theme of mortality, bringing a darker edge to the poem. The idea that we will even put off dying ("When it comes to the last we’ll want to die—/Any other time!") is both absurd and profoundly unsettling. It underscores the extent to which we avoid confronting the uncomfortable truths of life. By juxtaposing everyday procrastination with the ultimate inevitability of death, Paterson suggests that our tendency to postpone extends to even the most significant aspects of our existence. It hints that we might be wasting our lives waiting for a better time that may never come.

Symbolism of "Any Other Time"

The phrase "Any other time" functions as a potent symbol of avoidance, procrastination, and the human tendency to live in the future rather than the present. It represents the myriad excuses we use to defer action, commitment, or confrontation. It's not just a temporal marker but an escape hatch. Furthermore, it could be interpreted as a commentary on the human condition itself. Are we all inherently prone to pushing things off, waiting for the perfect moment that never arrives? Is this perpetual postponement a fundamental aspect of our flawed nature? The poem leaves this question open to interpretation, prompting readers to reflect on their own habits of deferral.

Conclusion: A Timeless Reflection on Human Nature

In conclusion, "Any Other Time" is a deceptively simple yet profound poem that explores the universal human tendency to procrastinate and avoid the present. Through a series of relatable scenarios and a gradually shifting tone, Paterson reveals the humorous and ultimately sobering consequences of constantly deferring action and responsibility. The poem's significance lies in its timeless reflection on human nature, reminding us that while the promise of "any other time" can be comforting, it can also be a trap that prevents us from fully engaging with life.