Poem Analysis - Goody For Our Side And Your Side Too

An Overview of the Poem

Ogden Nash's "Goody For Our Side And Your Side Too" is a witty and thought-provoking exploration of the concepts of home, foreignness, and the arbitrary nature of national identity. The poem's tone is lighthearted and humorous, yet it carries a profound message about the relativity of belonging. Nash uses playful language and clever rhymes to discuss the fluidity of status between natives and foreigners, highlighting the absurdity of prejudice and the importance of mutual respect.

Themes of Belonging and Identity

The poem primarily explores the themes of belonging and identity. Nash illustrates how the labels of native and foreigner are merely a matter of perspective. The opening lines establish this idea, stating that foreigners are simply people somewhere else, while natives are people at home. This relativity is further emphasized through the example of a man who is at home in Rome but abroad when he is where you are. This theme is developed through the use of contrasting imagery, such as the Frenchman with his fetching beard and the Scot with his kilt and sporran, which represent the superficial differences that often define our perceptions of others.

The Arbitrariness of National Pride

Another significant theme is the arbitrariness of national pride. Nash points out that people regard their current location as their own, viewing the natives there as aliens. This theme is underscored by the repetition of the phrase wherever he is, he regards as his, which emphasizes the universal tendency to claim a place as one's own. The poem suggests that this sense of ownership is arbitrary and often leads to conflict, as seen in the humorous reference to the coroner, symbolizing the tragic outcomes of such disputes.

The Importance of Mutual Respect

The poem also emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and understanding. Nash concludes with a call for good manners and a simple thought that can eliminate conflict: recognizing that everyone is a foreigner to someone else. This theme is reinforced through the use of playful language and rhymes, which make the message more accessible and memorable. The final lines, which advise being mindful of manners and recognizing the relativity of native and foreigner status, underscore the poem's central message of empathy and mutual respect.

Conclusion

In summary, Ogden Nash's "Goody For Our Side And Your Side Too" is a clever and insightful exploration of the fluidity of belonging and the arbitrariness of national identity. Through the use of humor, contrasting imagery, and playful language, Nash highlights the importance of mutual respect and understanding. The poem's central message is that everyone is a foreigner to someone else, and recognizing this can help eliminate conflict and foster a more harmonious world. The poem's lighthearted tone and clever rhymes make its profound message accessible and memorable, encouraging readers to reflect on their own perceptions of belonging and identity.