Poem Analysis - Basket

Initial Impression and Tone

Carl Sandburg's poem Basket is a brief yet impactful piece that conveys a sense of wisdom and caution. The tone is serious and somewhat stern, urging the reader to consider the weight of their words. The poem begins with a direct address, Speak, sir, and be wise, setting a tone of authority and advice. The shift in mood occurs when the speaker compares the act of speaking to an old woman choosing apples, adding a layer of imagery that softens the initial sternness.

Themes of Wisdom and Caution

The primary theme of the poem is the importance of wisdom in speech. The phrase Speak, sir, and be wise immediately establishes this theme, suggesting that the act of speaking should be undertaken with careful consideration. The poem advises choosing your words, sir, like an old woman over a bushel of apples, which implies a deliberate and thoughtful process. This theme is developed through the imagery of the old woman, who is likely seen as wise and experienced, carefully selecting the best apples. This comparison suggests that words, like apples, should be chosen with care and discernment.

Imagery of the Old Woman and Apples

The old woman over a bushel of apples is a vivid and recurring image in the poem. This imagery serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it humanizes the advice, making it relatable and accessible. The old woman is likely seen as a figure of wisdom and experience, someone who has learned the value of careful consideration. The apples, on the other hand, represent the words one chooses to speak. Just as an old woman would carefully select the best apples, one should carefully choose their words. This imagery contributes to the overall message of the poem, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful and deliberate speech.

Final Insights

In conclusion, Carl Sandburg's Basket is a poem that emphasizes the importance of wisdom and caution in speech. Through the use of vivid imagery and a stern yet relatable tone, the poem advises the reader to choose their words carefully, much like an old woman selecting apples. This theme is developed through the comparison of speech to the careful selection of apples, highlighting the value of thoughtful and deliberate communication. The poem serves as a reminder of the power of words and the importance of using them wisely.