Poem Analysis - A Bas Ben Adhem

Introduction and Tone The poem "À bas Ben Adhem" by Ogden Nash is a satirical and humorous critique of human nature and society. The tone is cynical and playful, with Nash mocking humanity's self-importance and hypocrisy. The mood shifts from sarcastic questioning to outright dismissal, culminating in a declaration of independence from the human race. The poem's lighthearted rhythm and rhyme scheme contrast with its sharp commentary, making the criticism more digestible.

Theme: Human Hypocrisy and Self-Importance Nash explores the theme of human hypocrisy by highlighting how people celebrate their existence despite their flaws. The poem ridicules the idea that humans are superior, pointing out their physical and moral shortcomings. Lines like "The finest of the human race / are bad in figure, worse in face" underscore this irony. The reference to politicians declaring themselves "Nature's choice" further emphasizes the absurdity of human self-aggrandizement. Nash uses humor to expose the gap between humanity's self-image and reality.

Theme: Isolation and Independence The poem also delves into the theme of isolation, with the speaker expressing a desire to disconnect from humanity. The repeated assertion that the speaker can "get on without my fellow man" reflects a rejection of social bonds. Nash uses exaggerated examples, such as comparing humans to animals, to suggest that human relationships are overrated. The poem's final lines reinforce this sentiment