Poem Analysis - The Tale Of Custard The Dragon

The Tone and Mood of The Tale of Custard the Dragon

The Tale of Custard the Dragon by Ogden Nash is a whimsical and humorous narrative poem that tells the story of a little girl named Belinda and her pets, including a cowardly dragon named Custard. The poem begins with a lighthearted and playful tone, describing the various pets and their names. The mood shifts dramatically when a pirate appears, introducing an element of danger and suspense. The poem then returns to its playful tone as the dragon, despite his initial cowardice, bravely defeats the pirate. The final mood is one of reflection, as the pets discuss their bravery and Custard's unexpected heroism.

Themes of Bravery and Perception

The poem explores the theme of bravery and how it is perceived. Initially, Custard is portrayed as a coward, while Belinda, Ink, Blink, and Mustard are described as brave. This perception is challenged when Custard bravely defeats the pirate, revealing that bravery can come from unexpected sources. The theme is further developed when the other pets admit that they might have been braver if they had not been flustered, suggesting that true bravery is not always about facing danger but also about overcoming fear. The poem also touches on the theme of appearances versus reality, as Custard's fierce appearance contrasts with his initial cowardly behavior.

Symbolism and Imagery

The poem is rich in vivid imagery and symbolism. The dragon, Custard, is a central symbol representing the unexpected hero. His description as having big sharp teeth, spikes, scales, and daggers on his toes contrasts with his cowardly behavior, symbolizing the idea that true strength and bravery are not always visible. The pirate, with his pistols and cutlass, symbolizes danger and the unexpected. The little white house and the red wagon represent a safe and familiar environment, which is disrupted by the pirate's appearance. The imagery of the pets' reactions to the pirate, such as Mustard's terrified yelp and Blink's strategic retreat, highlights the contrast between their perceived bravery and their actual reactions to danger.

Conclusion

The Tale of Custard the Dragon is a delightful exploration of bravery, perception, and the unexpected. Through its whimsical narrative and vivid imagery, the poem challenges our notions of bravery and shows that true heroism can come from the most unlikely sources. The shift in mood from playful to suspenseful and back to reflective underscores the poem's message about the complexities of bravery. Ultimately, the poem invites readers to consider that bravery is not just about facing danger but also about overcoming fear and embracing the unexpected.