Poem Analysis - Good By Now Or Pardon My Gauntlet

Overall Impression and Tone

Ogden Nash's "Good-by Now Or Pardon My Gauntlet" presents a whimsical and humorous portrayal of a highly refined woman named Janet. The poem's tone is lighthearted and satirical, poking fun at the exaggerated manners and language of the upper class. Nash uses playful language and exaggerated contrasts to highlight the absurdities of extreme refinement. The mood remains consistently amusing throughout, with no significant shifts, as the poem maintains its comedic tone from start to finish.

Themes of Social Class and Language

One of the main themes in this poem is the contrast between different social classes, particularly the upper class and the common folk. Nash uses Janet's exaggerated refinement to satirize the upper class, showing how their language and mannerisms set them apart from the rest of society. For example, Janet "purchases hose" instead of "buying stockings," and she "retires" instead of "going to bed." These contrasts highlight the artificiality and pretension of the upper class, suggesting that their refinement is more about appearance than substance.

Another prominent theme is the power of language to define social status. Nash plays with language throughout the poem, using elevated vocabulary and formal phrasing to emphasize Janet's refinement. For instance, Janet's speech is described as "new-minted, freshly quarried," and she uses phrases like "That is correct" instead of "Yes." This theme is further emphasized through the use of archaic language, such as "doth" and "draweth," which add to the poem's humorous effect. By exaggerating the language of the upper class, Nash critiques the way language can be used to create and maintain social hierarchies.

Recurring Symbols and Imagery

The poem is rich with vivid imagery that contributes to its overall message. One recurring symbol is the contrast between Janet's refined behavior and the more natural or common behaviors of others. For example, while Janet turns "chartroose" when confronted by a mouse or moose, others turn green. This contrast highlights the artificiality of Janet's refinement, suggesting that it is at odds with natural human behavior. Another example is the way Janet refers to bodily functions and needs in a more formal way, such as asking for the "little girls' room" instead of the bathroom. This imagery underscores the theme of social class and the use of language to define status.

The poem also uses the symbol of Janet's refinement to comment on the absurdities of social class. Janet is described as a "fount, or fountess, of refinement," and this refinement is what makes her a countess. This imagery suggests that refinement is a valuable commodity in society, one that can elevate a person's status. However, the poem's humorous tone and exaggerated language also imply that this refinement is somewhat ridiculous, highlighting the absurdities of social class.

Conclusion

In "Good-by Now Or Pardon My Gauntlet," Ogden Nash uses humor and exaggeration to critique the artificialities of social class and the power of language to define status. Through vivid imagery and playful language, Nash highlights the absurdities of extreme refinement, suggesting that it is more about appearance than substance. The poem's lighthearted tone and whimsical portrayal of Janet serve as a commentary on the ways in which society values and rewards refinement, even when it is at odds with natural human behavior. Ultimately, the poem invites readers to question the value of refinement and the role of language in creating and maintaining social hierarchies.