Poem Analysis - Cahoots

Initial Impression and Tone

Carl Sandburg's "Cahoots" presents a gritty, urban landscape filled with criminal underworld slang and a sense of lawlessness. The poem's tone is brash and confident, almost boastful, as it delves into the world of crime and corruption. There is a shift in mood from the initial bravado to a more reflective, almost whimsical, tone towards the end, suggesting a underlying awareness of the absurdity of the situation.

Themes of Corruption and Collaboration

The primary theme of "Cahoots" is the pervasive nature of corruption and collaboration in a criminal underworld. The repeated phrase "ain't they all in cahoots" emphasizes the idea that everyone, from the lowest criminal to the highest authority, is involved in some form of deceit or collusion. This theme is developed through the use of vivid, criminal slang, which creates an immersive atmosphere of lawlessness and moral decay. The poem suggests that corruption is not just an individual problem but a systemic issue that permeates all levels of society.

Themes of Impunity and Mockery

Another significant theme is the sense of impunity felt by the criminals. The speaker boasts about getting away with crimes, using phrases like "nothin' ever sticks to my fingers" and "there ain't no law we got to wear mittens." This theme is reinforced by the mocking tone, which ridicules the idea of consequences or accountability. The speaker's defiance and mockery of the law highlight the sense of lawlessness and the belief that they can operate above the law.

Themes of Absurdity and Reflection

The final theme is the absurdity of the situation and a moment of reflection. The poem ends with a whimsical suggestion that "there oughta be a law everybody wear mittens," which adds a layer of absurdity to the otherwise serious tone. This line can be interpreted as a reflection on the futility of trying to control or regulate criminal behavior, or as a humorous acknowledgment of the speaker's own lawlessness. It also serves as a moment of reflection, where the speaker acknowledges the absurdity of their situation, even if only briefly.

Symbolism and Imagery

The poem is rich with vivid imagery and symbolism that contribute to its overall message. The use of criminal slang and phrases like "harness bulls, dicks, front office men" creates a vivid picture of the criminal underworld. The repeated phrase "ain't they all in cahoots" serves as a symbol of the pervasive nature of corruption, suggesting that everyone is involved in some form of deceit. The image of "mittens" at the end of the poem is particularly striking, as it adds a layer of absurdity and reflection to the otherwise serious tone. It can be interpreted as a symbol of the futility of trying to control or regulate criminal behavior, or as a humorous acknowledgment of the speaker's own lawlessness.

Conclusion

"Cahoots" by Carl Sandburg offers a stark portrayal of a criminal underworld where corruption and collaboration are the norm. Through vivid imagery, a brash tone, and a sense of impunity, the poem explores the pervasive nature of lawlessness and the absurdity of trying to control it. The final reflection on the absurdity of the situation adds a layer of depth to the poem, suggesting that even within the criminal underworld, there is an awareness of the futility of their actions. The poem serves as a commentary on the systemic nature of corruption and the challenges of enforcing the law in a society where everyone is "in cahoots."