Poem Analysis - National Song

Initial Impression and Tone

Ezra Pound's "National Song" presents a satirical and critical view of English society, particularly focusing on the banking system and censorship. The poem's tone is mocking and ironic, with a clear disdain for the societal norms and institutions it describes. The use of a chorus adds a musical, almost folk-like quality, enhancing the poem's satirical edge. The mood shifts from sarcastic to almost conspiratorial, especially in the chorus, where the poem delves into the darker aspects of societal control.

Historical and Authorial Context

Ezra Pound, an American expatriate, was known for his involvement in the modernist movement and his controversial political views. His experiences and observations in England likely influenced his critique of English society. The poem reflects the social and economic tensions of the early 20th century, where issues like economic inequality and censorship were prevalent. Pound's satirical approach is a commentary on the hypocrisy and corruption he perceived in English institutions.

Themes of Economic Critique and Social Control

The poem develops the theme of economic critique through its portrayal of "English banks" that "make the people pay." The repetition of the phrase "There is no land like England" sets up a contrast between the idealized notion of England and the harsh reality of its economic system. The imagery of "banks rise day by day" suggests a growing, oppressive financial institution that exploits the common people. The term "bank sharks" further emphasizes the predatory nature of these institutions, highlighting the economic exploitation that Pound criticizes.

The theme of social control is evident in the poem's depiction of censorship and the suppression of free thought. The lines "And to keep an eye on their readin' matter / Lest they should overhear the distressing chatter / Of the new economical theories / And ask inconvenient questions" reveal a society where intellectual freedom is stifled. The use of the word "distressing" to describe new economic theories suggests a fear of change and a desire to maintain the status quo. The phrase "inconvenient questions" underscores the idea that questioning the established order is seen as a threat to the ruling class.

Recurring Symbols and Imagery

The poem employs vivid imagery to convey its themes. The "castles" and "smutty literature" symbolize the duality of English society, where traditional symbols of freedom and progress coexist with repression and hypocrisy. The "muffins at his tea" add a touch of everyday life, making the critique more relatable and grounded. The "bawdy little Britons" and "bank sharks" are symbols of the common people and their oppressors, respectively. The contrast between these symbols highlights the economic and social disparities in English society.

The chorus introduces the idea of comparison with the French, who have "comic papers" that are not as censored as those in Britain. This comparison serves to underscore the lack of freedom in British society. The "new economical theories" mentioned in the chorus are a symbol of progress and change, which the ruling class fears and seeks to suppress. The poem's use of these symbols and imagery effectively conveys its critique of English society and its institutions.

Conclusion and Final Insight

"National Song" by Ezra Pound is a scathing critique of English society, focusing on economic exploitation and social control. Through vivid imagery and a satirical tone, Pound exposes the hypocrisy and corruption he saw in English institutions. The poem's themes of economic critique and social control are developed through symbols and imagery that highlight the disparities and repressions in society. The final insight is that Pound's poem serves as a call to question and challenge the established order, urging readers to seek truth and freedom in the face of oppression.