Poem Analysis - Always The Mob

Carl Sandburg's "Always The Mob" presents a vivid and somewhat chaotic exploration of human collective behavior and its impact on history and nature. The poem's tone is reflective and somewhat somber, shifting between descriptions of historical events and natural phenomena, all tied together by the recurring theme of the mob. Sandburg uses vivid imagery and symbolism to convey his message, creating a sense of both awe and dread at the power of the collective.

Themes of Collective Power and Human Nature

The poem explores the theme of collective power, highlighting how groups of people, whether organized or chaotic, can shape the world. Sandburg uses historical examples, such as the construction of the Pyramids and the fall of Belshazzar, to illustrate how the actions of a mob can lead to both creation and destruction. The repetition of the phrase "a mob" emphasizes the idea that human collective behavior is a constant and powerful force in history. The poem also delves into the theme of human nature, suggesting that individuals are inherently part of a larger collective, whether they like it or not. The final lines, "I am born in the mob—I die in the mob—the same goes for you—I don’t care who you are," underscore this idea, emphasizing the inescapable nature of collective identity.

The Role of Nature and Natural Forces

Another significant theme is the role of nature and natural forces in shaping the world. Sandburg juxtaposes human actions with natural phenomena, such as typhoons, lightning, and geological processes. These natural forces are described in vivid, almost violent terms, suggesting that they are as powerful and unpredictable as human mobs. The poem implies that nature and human behavior are intertwined, both capable of creating and destroying. This theme is reinforced by the use of natural imagery throughout the poem, from the "hogs" that plunge into the sea to the "layers of worms" that form valley floors.

Recurring Symbols and Imagery

The poem is rich with recurring symbols and vivid imagery. The most prominent symbol is the mob itself, which is depicted in various forms, from historical events to natural phenomena. The mob is portrayed as a powerful, often destructive force, capable of both building and destroying. Another recurring image is that of natural forces, such as typhoons, lightning, and geological processes. These images serve to emphasize the raw, unpredictable power of both nature and human behavior. The use of vivid, often violent imagery, such as "a typhoon tearing loose an island" and "a jag of lightning," contributes to the poem's sense of awe and dread at the power of the collective. The final lines, with their references to "fire," "mist," and "tears," suggest a sense of both struggle and unity, emphasizing the complex and often contradictory nature of human collective behavior.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Always The Mob" is a powerful exploration of the collective power of human behavior and its impact on the world. Through vivid imagery, symbolism, and a reflective tone, Sandburg conveys the idea that individuals are inextricably linked to the larger collective, whether they like it or not. The poem's recurring symbols and vivid imagery serve to emphasize the raw, unpredictable power of both nature and human behavior, suggesting that these forces are intertwined and capable of both creation and destruction. Ultimately, the poem offers a profound insight into the complex and often contradictory nature of human collective behavior, highlighting both its potential for greatness and its capacity for destruction.