Poem Analysis - The Ostrich

Initial Impressions and Tone

Ogden Nash's "The Ostrich" is a whimsical and lighthearted poem that captures the essence of the ostrich in a playful manner. The tone is humorous and somewhat tongue-in-cheek, reflecting Nash's signature style of using wit and wordplay. The poem maintains a consistent mood of amusement throughout, making it an enjoyable read for a broad audience. The simplicity of the language and the straightforward structure support the overall lighthearted theme.

Themes of Humor and Observation

The primary theme of the poem is humor, which is evident from the outset. Nash uses playful language and exaggerated descriptions to create a comical image of the ostrich. The phrase "Its mouth is wide, its neck is narra" is a clever play on words, combining "narrow" with "narra" to maintain the rhyme scheme while adding a humorous twist. This theme is further developed through the use of vivid imagery, such as the ostrich's "long and lofty legs," which are described in a way that emphasizes their absurdity rather than their functionality.

Nature and Human Interaction

Another theme is the interaction between humans and nature. The poem presents the ostrich in a way that is both familiar and exaggerated, suggesting a sense of wonder and amusement at the natural world. The line "I'm glad it sits to lay its eggs" implies a human perspective, highlighting the contrast between the ostrich's behavior and human expectations. This theme is subtle but adds depth to the poem, inviting readers to consider their own perceptions of the natural world.

Symbolism and Imagery

The ostrich itself serves as a central symbol in the poem, representing the absurd and the whimsical. The description of its physical features, such as its "wide" mouth and "long and lofty legs," contributes to this symbolism. These features are not just physical attributes but also metaphors for the ostrich's unique and somewhat comical nature. The imagery of the ostrich "roaming the great Sahara" adds a sense of grandeur and adventure, contrasting with the playful tone of the rest of the poem. This contrast creates a dynamic interplay between the serious and the humorous, making the poem more engaging.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "The Ostrich" by Ogden Nash is a delightful exploration of humor and observation through the lens of nature. The poem's lighthearted tone and playful language make it an accessible and enjoyable read, while its themes of humor and human interaction with nature add depth and complexity. The vivid imagery and symbolism of the ostrich contribute to the overall message, inviting readers to appreciate the whimsical side of the natural world. The poem's significance lies in its ability to entertain while subtly encouraging a deeper reflection on our perceptions of nature.