Poem Analysis - Arithmetic

Initial Impressions and Tone

Carl Sandburg's poem Arithmetic presents a whimsical and playful exploration of mathematics, blending the abstract nature of numbers with vivid, childlike imagery. The tone is lighthearted and conversational, inviting readers to engage with the subject matter in a fun and accessible way. The poem shifts between moments of clarity and confusion, reflecting the challenges and triumphs of learning arithmetic. Sandburg's use of simple language and relatable scenarios makes the poem approachable for a broad audience, while also conveying deeper insights about the nature of learning and problem-solving.

Themes of Learning and Growth

One of the primary themes in Arithmetic is the process of learning and growth. The poem repeatedly emphasizes the idea of trying and retrying, as seen in the lines "and you have to start all over, try again, and see how it comes out this time." This reflects the iterative nature of learning, where mistakes are part of the process and persistence is key. The poem also highlights the joy and satisfaction of finding the right answer, as in "and everything is nice, and you can look out of the window and see the blue sky." This theme is developed through the use of imagery that contrasts the struggle of problem-solving with the reward of success.

Themes of Imagination and Play

Another significant theme is the role of imagination and play in learning. Sandburg uses playful language and imaginative scenarios to make arithmetic more engaging. For example, the lines "Arithmetic is seven eleven, all good children go to heaven or five six, bundle of sticks" use rhymes and familiar phrases to make numbers more memorable and fun. The poem also incorporates whimsical images, such as "pigeons in and out of your head" and "a striped zebra with streaks all over him," to illustrate mathematical concepts in a way that appeals to the imagination. This theme underscores the idea that learning can be enjoyable and creative, rather than merely rote and mechanical.

Themes of Uncertainty and Ambiguity

A third theme is the uncertainty and ambiguity that often accompany learning. The poem acknowledges that sometimes the answer is wrong, and one must start over. This is reflected in the lines "and you have to start all over, try again, and see how it comes out this time." The final stanza, with its riddle-like questions about animal crackers and fried eggs, adds a layer of ambiguity. The poem does not provide clear answers to these questions, leaving the reader to ponder and interpret. This theme highlights the idea that learning is a journey filled with uncertainties and that embracing ambiguity is part of the process.

Recurring Symbols and Imagery

The poem is rich with recurring symbols and vivid imagery that contribute to its overall message. Numbers are personified and animated, as in "Arithmetic is where numbers fly like pigeons in and out of your head." This imagery makes abstract concepts more tangible and relatable. The use of everyday objects, such as animal crackers and fried eggs, also grounds the poem in familiar experiences, making the abstract nature of arithmetic more accessible. The blue sky, mentioned as a reward for finding the right answer, symbolizes clarity and success. The poem's playful and imaginative language invites readers to see arithmetic not just as a set of rules, but as a dynamic and engaging process.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Carl Sandburg's Arithmetic is a delightful exploration of the learning process, particularly in the realm of mathematics. Through playful language, vivid imagery, and relatable scenarios, the poem conveys the joy and challenges of problem-solving. The themes of learning and growth, imagination and play, and uncertainty and ambiguity are woven together to create a rich tapestry of meaning. The poem's whimsical tone and accessible language make it a timeless piece that resonates with readers of all ages, reminding us that learning is a journey filled with discovery, persistence, and the occasional moment of pure, blue-sky clarity.