Poem Analysis - Catch

A Whimsical Introduction to "Catch"

Langston Hughes's "Catch" is a short, sweet poem that initially evokes a sense of wonder and simple joy. It presents a fantastical image of a "Big Boy" carrying a mermaid, suggesting a tale of discovery and perhaps even love. The tone is lighthearted and playful, reminiscent of a children's story. The poem's brevity contributes to its dreamy, almost childlike quality, before hinting at darker, more complex themes beneath the surface.

Dreams of Love and Possession

One prominent theme in "Catch" is the notion of love and possession. The poem quickly moves from the captivating image of the mermaid to the Big Boy’s intent: "To marry." This introduces a possessive element, shifting the focus from a pure, innocent encounter to a relationship defined by ownership. The phrase "half fish, / Half girl" emphasizes the mermaid's hybrid nature, potentially reducing her to a trophy, a unique "catch" to be possessed rather than a being to be loved and respected. The abruptness with which marriage is introduced raises questions about the nature of consent and the mermaid's agency in this arrangement.

The Fisher Boy's Identity and Role

The poem also explores the theme of identity and societal role, particularly as it relates to the "Big Boy" who is also described as a "fisher boy." His identity is directly linked to his ability to "catch" something, defining him by his actions and skills as a provider. The mermaid becomes an extension of this identity. The fact that he "found a fish/To carry" suggests a sense of entitlement, as if the mermaid is merely another type of fish to be caught and displayed, reinforcing the idea that his societal role as a fisher influences how he perceives and interacts with the mermaid.

Symbolism in the Mermaid's Tail

The mermaid's tail, described as "curved / Beneath his arm," is a powerful symbol. On the surface, it creates a visual of the mermaid as being captive. More subtly, the curving of the tail suggests a forced adaptation to the boy's world. The mermaid's natural form is being molded to fit the boy's desires. The tail, a symbol of her unique identity and connection to the sea, is now restricted and controlled. This image potentially symbolizes the sacrifice and compromise often associated with relationships, especially when one party holds more power. Is the mermaid willingly accepting this confinement, or is it a result of her being captured? This ambiguity makes the poem thought-provoking.

Concluding Thoughts: A World of Wishes and Worries

In conclusion, "Catch" by Langston Hughes is a deceptively simple poem that delves into complex themes of love, possession, identity, and sacrifice. While initially presenting a whimsical image, the poem quickly introduces subtle undertones of control and objectification. The mermaid's tail becomes a potent symbol of adaptation and potential loss of self. The poem leaves us with a lingering question: is this a tale of love and unity, or a cautionary one about the dangers of possessiveness and the potential for one identity to overshadow another? The poem's significance lies in its ability to provoke these questions within a compact and evocative narrative.