Poem Analysis - Ta

A Glimpse of Rhythm and Melancholy

E.E. Cummings' "Ta" is a short, evocative poem that paints a picture of a hippo, but not just any hippo – one imbued with a sense of gentleness and melancholy. The poem's tone is initially playful, mimicking the rhythm of tapping feet, but it quickly shifts to a more subdued and slightly sorrowful mood as the description unfolds. The fragmented language and visual arrangement contribute to a sense of something broken or incomplete, reflecting perhaps the hippo's internal state. It's a fleeting moment, a snapshot of an animal caught in a state of quiet contemplation, punctuated by bursts of chaotic energy.

Echoes of Performance and Quiet Sadness

One central theme in "Ta" is the juxtaposition of performance and quiet sadness. The poem opens with "ta / ppin / g / toe," immediately establishing a sense of rhythm and potential performance, possibly linked to jazz music, which was a popular art form during Cummings' time. However, the description of the "hip / popot / amus Back" quickly introduces a sense of weight and stillness. The phrase "gen / teel-ly lugu / bri ous" directly contrasts with the initial liveliness, highlighting the hippo's gentle yet mournful demeanor. The animal is not simply a beast; it is an individual capable of feeling, portrayed as dignified even in its melancholy.

The Symbolism of the Hippo's Eyes

The poem's central image, "eyes / LOOPTHELOOP," is particularly striking and open to interpretation. This image may symbolize a disconnect between the hippo's internal emotional state and its outward expression. The "LOOPTHELOOP" suggests a chaotic, perhaps even dizzying, swirl of emotions within the hippo's gaze. Another potential interpretation suggests something related to movement and circus; perhaps it hints to the captive and artificial life of the hippo. It is possible that the eyes are windows to a complex inner world that is both captivating and bewildering. Cummings deliberately leaves this ambiguous, inviting the reader to contemplate the hippo's internal experience.

Bang and Ragtime: A Momentary Respite

The final line, "fathandsbangrag," is a sudden and unexpected burst of energy that can be interpreted in multiple ways. The term may refer to the playing of a ragtime piece on piano, as the word "hands" and "bang" suggests a playing of the instrument. Perhaps the hippo remembers a lively scene in their mind as a distraction from their melancholy. It could also be read as a final, almost desperate, attempt to break free from the surrounding sadness. The use of "fathands" could also convey a sense of clumsiness or ineptitude, perhaps suggesting an imperfect or incomplete attempt at joy.

A Fleeting Portrait of Contemplation

In conclusion, "Ta" by E.E. Cummings is a brief but powerful poem that encapsulates a moment of quiet contemplation in an unusual subject – a hippo. By utilizing fragmented language, contrasting tones, and vivid imagery, Cummings explores the interplay between performance and melancholy, leaving the reader to ponder the complexities of the hippo's inner world. The poem's impact lies in its ability to evoke a sense of empathy for an animal often overlooked, revealing a depth of feeling that transcends simple description. The final image is one of unresolved tension, a mixture of sadness and a frenetic attempt at joy that leaves the reader pondering the true state of the hippo.