Poem Analysis - Lather As You Go

Initial Impression and Tone

Ogden Nash's "Lather As You Go" is a brief, witty poem that carries a somber undertone despite its lighthearted language. The poem's tone is playful yet reflective, inviting readers to ponder deeper meanings beneath its surface humor. The shift in mood from casual to contemplative is subtle but evident, as the poem moves from a humorous observation to a more serious reflection on mortality.

Themes of Mortality and Reflection

The primary theme of the poem is mortality, highlighted by the mention of John Brown's burial. The phrase "Beneath this slab" immediately sets a grave tone, suggesting the finality of death. The use of the word "stowed" adds a casual, almost dismissive tone to the burial, contrasting with the solemnity of the subject. This contrast emphasizes the theme of how we often overlook the seriousness of death in our daily lives.

The poem also explores the theme of reflection. The lines "He watched the ads / And not the road" suggest a life spent distracted by trivialities rather than focusing on what truly matters. This theme is developed through the imagery of "ads" versus "the road," symbolizing superficial distractions versus the journey of life. The poem implies that John Brown may have missed out on deeper experiences by being too absorbed in trivial pursuits.

Symbolism and Imagery

The poem uses vivid imagery to convey its themes. The "slab" beneath which John Brown is buried is a stark symbol of death and finality. It represents the end of a life that, according to the poem, was perhaps too focused on superficial things. The "ads" and "the road" are contrasting symbols. "Ads" represent the distractions and superficialities of modern life, while "the road" symbolizes the journey of life and the deeper experiences that one might miss by being too distracted.

The ambiguity in the poem lies in the lack of detail about John Brown's life. The reader is left to wonder about the specifics of his distractions and whether he had any moments of reflection or growth. This ambiguity invites readers to reflect on their own lives and the choices they make, posing the question: Are we too focused on the "ads" and missing out on the "road"?

Conclusion

"Lather As You Go" by Ogden Nash is a deceptively simple poem that uses humor and vivid imagery to explore themes of mortality and reflection. The poem's playful tone contrasts with its serious subject matter, highlighting the ease with which we can overlook the significance of life and death. Through its symbols and imagery, the poem encourages readers to consider the deeper meanings behind their daily choices and the importance of staying focused on the journey of life rather than being distracted by trivialities. The final insight is a call to mindfulness and reflection, urging us to ensure that we are not just "watching the ads" but also paying attention to the road ahead.