Poem Analysis - So Does Everybody Else Only Not So Much

Overall Impression and Tone

Ogden Nash's poem "So Does Everybody Else, Only Not So Much" presents a humorous and self-deprecating exploration of the speaker's struggle with an uncontrollable urge to repeat stories and anecdotes. The tone is lighthearted yet tinged with a sense of desperation, as the speaker laments the social consequences of their compulsive behavior. The poem shifts from a playful, almost whimsical mood to a more introspective and melancholic one, reflecting the speaker's growing awareness of their social isolation.

Themes of Compulsion and Social Isolation

The primary theme of the poem is the struggle with compulsion. The speaker's urge to repeat stories and anecdotes is described as an "irksome urge," a "mental buttery" that is "butterless," and a "mental larder lardless." These metaphors highlight the emptiness and futility of the speaker's actions, emphasizing the theme of compulsion. The speaker's inability to resist this urge leads to social isolation, as friends and acquaintances grow weary of their repetitive stories. This isolation is further emphasized by the speaker's admission that they are "just another Ancient Mariner," a reference to Coleridge's poem where the mariner is cursed to tell his tale to everyone he meets, regardless of their interest.

Imagery of Repetition and Despair

The poem is rich with vivid imagery that underscores the themes of repetition and despair. The speaker's urge is described as "compounded of nettles and glue," suggesting a painful and sticky entanglement. The image of "heaving into view" conveys the speaker's unwanted and intrusive presence in social situations. The repetition of phrases like "I know you've heard this one" and "I'm going to tell it to you again regardless" emphasizes the speaker's compulsive behavior. The final lines, where the speaker repeats the phrase about their "barrener" social life, drive home the theme of despair and the futility of their actions. The image of "carrying around clippings and reading them to people twice" is particularly poignant, highlighting the speaker's desperate need for validation and connection, despite their awareness of its futility.

Conclusion: The Tragicomic Struggle

The poem's significance lies in its exploration of the tragicomic struggle with compulsion and the resulting social isolation. Through humor and self-deprecation, Nash delves into the human condition, highlighting the universal struggle with habits and the fear of social rejection. The speaker's awareness of their problem, coupled with their inability to change, creates a poignant and relatable portrait of human frailty. The poem serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between our desires for connection and the pitfalls of our compulsive behaviors. Ultimately, Nash's poem invites readers to reflect on their own habits and the social consequences they may have, offering a gentle nudge towards self-awareness and change.