Poem Analysis - The Way To Hump A Cow Is Not

A Satirical Look at Conformity

E.E. Cummings's poem, "The Way To Hump A Cow Is Not," is a satirical and whimsical critique of societal norms and the often-absurd methods people employ to achieve their goals. The poem uses the bizarre metaphor of "humping a cow" to represent pursuing success or acceptance. Its tone is initially playful, almost nonsensical, but gradually becomes more pointed and cynical as it exposes the foolishness of blindly following established practices. There's a clear shift from playful absurdity to a sharper indictment of societal pressures and political maneuvering.

The Absurdity of Accepted Methods

One of the poem’s central themes is the futility of conventional wisdom when it comes to achieving real results. The repeated phrase "the way to hump a cow is not" sets up a series of actions that are clearly ridiculous and ineffective. Examples include drawing a line around a spot and calling it "beautifool," or dropping a penny in a slot and bellowing. These absurd actions symbolize the pointless rituals and conformity that people often engage in, believing they will lead to success or fulfillment. The poem suggests that true achievement requires more than simply going through the motions.

Exposing Empty Rhetoric and Political Manipulation

The poem also explores the theme of political manipulation and empty rhetoric. The stanzas discussing "multiplying because and why" and "tossing boms at uncle toms" expose the convoluted and often destructive logic used to justify certain actions. The final stanza, with its blatant appeal to "decent mem and wonens" and its dismissive attitude towards dissent ("which if they don't to hell with them"), directly satirizes the self-serving nature of political campaigns and the tendency to demonize opposition. This highlights how easily people can be swayed by simplistic or manipulative arguments.

The Cow as a Symbol of Conformity and the Unattainable

The central image of the poem, "humping a cow," serves as a potent symbol. It represents the unattainable or the absurd goal that society often sets for individuals. The cow, in this context, could be interpreted as a symbol of societal expectations, conformity, or even the pursuit of material wealth. The poem challenges the notion that blindly following prescribed methods will lead to success in reaching this "cow." Instead, it suggests that these methods are often just distractions or empty rituals that prevent genuine achievement or connection.

Conclusion: A Call for Independent Thought

In conclusion, "The Way To Hump A Cow Is Not" is a clever and incisive critique of societal norms and the often-absurd methods people employ to achieve their goals. Through its use of playful language, bizarre imagery, and satirical observations, the poem exposes the futility of conformity and the dangers of blind adherence to established practices. Ultimately, Cummings' poem serves as a call for independent thought and a rejection of the empty rhetoric and manipulative tactics that often dominate public discourse. It urges us to question the "ways" we are told to follow and to seek our own, more meaningful paths.