Poem Analysis - Me Up At Does

A Glimpse into Existential Dread

E.E. Cummings' "Me up at Does" is a short, unsettling poem that evokes feelings of alienation and remorse. The poem's fragmented language and stark imagery create a sense of confusion and unease. The tone is initially hushed and observational, quickly shifting to one of guilt and self-questioning. The poem's brevity amplifies its impact, leaving the reader with a lingering sense of discomfort and profound questions about responsibility.

Echoes of Guilt and Shame

One of the primary themes in the poem is guilt. The speaker, represented by the fragmented "Me up at does," seems to be reflecting on a past action that has led to a negative consequence, symbolized by the "poisoned mouse." The lines "What have i done that / You wouldn't have" suggest a sense of regret and a potential accusation from an unseen "You." This questioning implies that the speaker has crossed a moral boundary, performing an action that is now haunting them, leaving them in a state of introspection and shame.

The Symbolism of the Poisoned Mouse

The "poisoned mouse" acts as a powerful symbol of suffering and innocence destroyed. Mice are often associated with vulnerability and smallness. The adjective "poisoned" highlights a deliberate act of harm, suggesting a violation of trust or an abuse of power. The image of the mouse staring "quietly" further emphasizes its helplessness and silent accusation, contributing to the speaker's feelings of guilt. It could also be interpreted as a representation of the self, poisoned by one's own actions or the actions of others.

Mortality's Quiet Stare

The poem also subtly touches upon the theme of mortality. The phrase "still who alive" juxtaposes the stillness of death with the question of survival. This opposition creates a sense of ambiguity and existential questioning. The speaker's contemplation of their actions in the face of death underscores the weight of their choices and their potential impact on their own existence. The "quiet stare" could also be the gaze of death itself, silently judging the speaker's actions.

Lingering Questions of Responsibility

In conclusion, "Me up at Does" is a deeply evocative poem that explores themes of guilt, suffering, and mortality through fragmented language and unsettling imagery. The poem's brevity amplifies its impact, leaving the reader with a sense of unease and a lingering question about the nature of responsibility and the consequences of our actions. Does the "You" represent a societal judgment, a personal conscience, or even a divine entity? The ambiguity allows for multiple interpretations, cementing the poem's power to provoke introspection.