Poem Analysis - Will Consider Situation

An Overview of the Poem

Ogden Nash's "Will Consider Situation" is a humorous and tongue-in-cheek piece of advice for a young man seeking employment. The poem's tone is lighthearted and satirical, with a playful rhythm that mimics the cadence of spoken advice. Nash uses exaggerated logic and absurd arguments to make his points, creating a comedic effect. The mood shifts slightly from playful to more serious when discussing the physical comfort and leisure associated with certain jobs, but it remains largely humorous throughout.

Themes of Ambition and Comfort

The primary theme of the poem is the pursuit of comfort and ease in one's career. Nash advises the young man to avoid starting at the bottom and to seek out jobs that are physically comfortable. He argues that competition is stiffer at the bottom, and that higher positions come with better pay and more leisure time. This theme is developed through the use of exaggerated logic and humorous imagery, such as the comparison of postmen delivering checks to office workers. Another theme is the critique of traditional advice about hard work. Nash pokes fun at the idea that hard jobs are better for you, using the example of postmen working in harsh conditions to deliver checks to comfortable office workers. He suggests that people who work sitting down get paid more than those who work standing up, further emphasizing the value of comfort in his advice.

Recurring Symbols and Imagery

One recurring symbol in the poem is the idea of physical comfort and leisure. Nash uses vivid imagery to describe the benefits of a comfortable job, such as the ability to correct a growing waistline with golf or tennis. He also uses the image of a sitting position to symbolize a comfortable and well-paying job, suggesting that the young man should aim for a position that allows him to sit and earn at least twenty-five thousand dollars annually. Another important image is the contrast between hard physical labor and comfortable office work. Nash uses the example of postmen working in harsh conditions to deliver checks to office workers, highlighting the disparity between the two types of jobs. This image underscores his argument that comfortable jobs are more desirable and come with better pay and more leisure time. The poem's use of humor and exaggeration also serves as a symbol of its satirical intent, poking fun at traditional advice about hard work and the pursuit of success.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Will Consider Situation" is a humorous and satirical take on the pursuit of comfort and ease in one's career. Nash uses exaggerated logic and vivid imagery to argue for the value of comfortable jobs, poking fun at traditional advice about hard work. The poem's recurring symbols of physical comfort and leisure, as well as its critique of traditional advice, contribute to its overall message of seeking out the easiest and most comfortable path to success. The poem serves as a reminder of the importance of considering one's own comfort and well-being in the pursuit of a career, even if it means taking a more unconventional or satirical approach.