Poem Analysis - Telegram

Initial Impression and Tone

Carl Sandburg's "Telegram" presents a vivid and dramatic scene that shifts from casual humor to sudden urgency. The poem begins with a lighthearted tone, describing a man joking about a new hat for his wife, but quickly transitions to a tense and anxious mood when the man receives a telegram. This shift highlights the poem's exploration of unexpected events and their impact on everyday life. The narrative style and colloquial language make the poem accessible, while the abrupt change in mood adds a layer of intrigue.

Themes of Uncertainty and Reaction

The poem delves into themes of uncertainty and reaction to unexpected news. The telegram, a symbol of urgent communication, triggers a dramatic response from the two hundred pound man, who abruptly leaves his desk to rush to a railroad depot. This reaction underscores the power of unexpected information to disrupt routine and provoke immediate action. The man's sudden change from joking to panic illustrates how quickly life can be altered by unforeseen events.

The theme of resilience is also present, particularly in the contrast between the man's reaction and the shoemaker's response. The shoemaker's calm and grounded demeanor, expressed in his simple statement, "I pay my bills, I love my wife, and I am not afraid of anybody," provides a counterpoint to the man's frantic behavior. This contrast suggests that resilience and stability can coexist with the unpredictability of life, offering a sense of security amidst chaos.

Symbols and Imagery

The telegram itself is a powerful symbol in the poem, representing the sudden and often unsettling nature of important news. The description of the telegram as "a little scrap of paper" that "charged the air like a set of crystals in a chemist's tube to a whispering pinch of salt" emphasizes its transformative power. This imagery suggests that even small, seemingly insignificant things can have a profound impact, altering the course of events and emotions.

The "set of crystals in a chemist's tube" and "whispering pinch of salt" are vivid images that convey the delicate yet potent nature of the telegram's message. These metaphors highlight the poem's exploration of how small, seemingly innocuous things can carry immense significance. The reference to Diogenes, the ancient philosopher who lived in a tub, adds a layer of philosophical reflection, suggesting a contemplation on the simplicity and complexity of human reactions to life's uncertainties.

Conclusion

The poem "Telegram" by Carl Sandburg effectively captures the sudden and dramatic impact of unexpected news on everyday life. Through vivid imagery and a shift in tone, Sandburg explores themes of uncertainty, reaction, and resilience. The telegram serves as a powerful symbol of the transformative potential of small, seemingly insignificant events. The contrast between the man's frantic reaction and the shoemaker's calm resilience offers a nuanced perspective on how individuals cope with life's unpredictabilities. Ultimately, the poem invites readers to reflect on the delicate balance between stability and chaos in human experience.