Poem Analysis - She Being Brand

A Joyful Ride: Introduction to "She Being Brand"

E.E. Cummings' "she being Brand" is a playful and energetic poem that uses the extended metaphor of a first car ride to explore themes of discovery, excitement, and perhaps even a subtly veiled sense of burgeoning sexuality. The poem's tone is predominantly exuberant and admiring, filled with the naive enthusiasm of a driver experiencing a brand-new possession. While the poem begins with carefulness and precision, it quickly accelerates into a joyous, almost reckless abandon, before ending with a lingering, satisfied stillness. The poem evokes feelings of both exhilaration and accomplishment.

Automotive Allusion and Intimacy: A Theme of Connection

One of the poem's central themes is that of connection and intimacy. The poem uses the automobile as a symbol for something more personal and potentially romantic. The speaker's meticulous preparation for the ride – "thoroughly oiled the universal joint tested my gas felt of / her radiator made sure her springs were O. / K." – mirrors the careful courtship one might undertake when beginning a relationship. The mechanical language itself becomes sensual, with phrases like "give / her the juice,good" suggesting a more intimate encounter. The successful journey and the final, trembling stop reinforce the idea of a fulfilling connection, hinting that the "she" is not just a car, but a representation of someone the speaker cares for deeply.

The Thrill of Discovery: A Sense of Adventure

The poem also explores the theme of discovery. The speaker's journey is a process of learning and understanding the "she" that is "Brand / -new." Each mechanical action – "flooded-the-carburetor cranked her / up,slipped the / clutch" – is a step towards comprehending the nuances of this new experience. The increasingly confident and fluid driving, culminating in the phrase "like / greasedlightning," reflects the speaker's growing mastery and enjoyment. The very act of driving itself becomes a symbol of exploration and the thrill of venturing into the unknown.

The Paradox of Control: Finding Balance

A subtle but important theme is the balance between control and surrender. The speaker initially emphasizes control, carefully checking and preparing the car. However, as the ride progresses, there's a sense of letting go and embracing the experience. The unexpected "she / kicked what / the hell" suggests moments of unpredictability and the need to adapt. Ultimately, the speaker regains control with the "internalexpanding / & / externalcontracting / brakes," bringing the car to a halt. This controlled ending underscores the idea that true enjoyment often involves finding a balance between careful planning and the willingness to embrace the unexpected turns of life.

"Divinity Avenue" and the "Public Gardens": Symbolic Imagery

The poem uses specific locations – "Divinity / avenue" and the "Public / Gardens" – as symbolic landmarks in the journey. "Divinity Avenue" might represent a higher purpose or a significant turning point in the speaker's life. Passing this corner with ease suggests a successful negotiation of an important choice or challenge. In contrast, the "Public / Gardens" likely signifies a return to a more conventional or shared space. The return journey, while pleasurable, is also a move back towards societal norms and expectations after a period of personal exploration. The juxtaposition of these locations highlights the tension between individual freedom and social constraints.

A Lasting Impression: Conclusion

In conclusion, "she being Brand" is a multi-layered poem that uses the seemingly simple metaphor of a car ride to explore complex themes of intimacy, discovery, and control. Cummings' playful language and vivid imagery create a memorable and engaging experience for the reader. While the poem celebrates the excitement of new beginnings, it also acknowledges the importance of balance and the eventual return to reality. The poem's significance lies in its ability to transform a mundane activity into a powerful and resonant metaphor for the human experience, leaving the reader with a sense of both exhilaration and thoughtful reflection. Is the poem ultimately an extended metaphor for a sexual experience or simply a celebration of automotive innovation and the joy of driving? The poem's ambiguity allows for multiple interpretations, contributing to its lasting appeal.