Poem Analysis - Portrait Of The Artist As A Prematurely Old Man

An Overview of the Poem

Ogden Nash's "Portrait Of The Artist As A Prematurely Old Man" is a witty and reflective exploration of sin and human behavior. The poem's tone is conversational and humorous, yet it carries a serious undertone about the consequences of inaction. Nash uses straightforward language and vivid imagery to discuss the two types of sin: commission and omission. The poem shifts from a lighthearted discussion to a more somber reflection on the pain caused by unfulfilled duties.

Themes of Sin and Consequence

The primary theme of the poem is the distinction between sins of commission and sins of omission. Nash defines sins of commission as actions that are wrong, but often enjoyable, while sins of omission are the things we fail to do, which can cause significant trouble. The poem develops this theme through the use of everyday examples, such as unpaid bills and unkept appointments, making the abstract concept of sin relatable. The tone shifts from playful to cautionary, emphasizing the long-term pain caused by neglect.

Another theme is the idea of personal responsibility. Nash suggests that while sins of commission might be enjoyable in the moment, they are at least acknowledged and dealt with. In contrast, sins of omission are often overlooked until they cause trouble, highlighting the importance of proactive behavior. The poem's moral is clear: it is better not to sin at all, but if one must, it is preferable to do so through action rather than inaction.

The theme of regret is also present, particularly in the reflection on the pain caused by unfulfilled duties. Nash uses vivid imagery, such as "eggs under your skin" and "painfully bitten," to illustrate the discomfort and trouble that come from neglecting responsibilities. This imagery underscores the idea that sins of omission can be more harmful in the long run because they often go unnoticed until it is too late.

Symbols and Imagery

The poem is rich with symbols and imagery that contribute to its overall message. The "eggs under your skin" is a striking image that represents the hidden, nagging pain caused by sins of omission. This image is particularly effective because it is both vivid and relatable, making the abstract concept of sin more tangible. The "insurance you haven't taken out" and "checks you haven't added up" are everyday examples that make the theme of neglect more accessible.

The poem also uses the contrast between "riotous red-letter day" and the mundane neglect of duties to highlight the lack of enjoyment in sins of omission. This contrast emphasizes the idea that while sins of commission might be enjoyable, sins of omission are not, making the latter more insidious. The "suitable things you didn't do" are the things that cause the most trouble, suggesting that neglecting responsibilities can have serious consequences.

Conclusion

Ogden Nash's "Portrait Of The Artist As A Prematurely Old Man" is a thoughtful exploration of the two types of sin and their consequences. Through vivid imagery and a conversational tone, Nash makes a serious point about the importance of personal responsibility and the dangers of neglect. The poem's moral is clear: it is better to act, even if it means committing sins of commission, than to be passive and fall into the trap of sins of omission. The poem serves as a reminder to be proactive in our duties and to avoid the hidden pain that comes from neglect.