Poem Analysis - Born Yesterday

Introduction: An Unconventional Blessing

Philip Larkin’s "Born Yesterday" presents a unique and somewhat cynical blessing for a newborn girl. The poem initially feels like a gentle offering, but quickly subverts expectations by rejecting conventional wishes of beauty and effortless charm. The tone shifts from hopeful to almost pragmatic as the speaker contemplates the potential pitfalls of extraordinary attributes. Ultimately, the poem offers a counterintuitive aspiration: a life of comfortable ordinariness as a path to genuine happiness.

Theme 1: The Burden of Exceptionalism

One central theme in "Born Yesterday" is the burden of exceptionalism. The speaker directly refutes the common wish for the child to be beautiful and effortlessly lovable, recognizing that such qualities can be a curse as much as a blessing. The lines "Not ugly, not good-looking, / Nothing uncustomary / To pull you off your balance" suggest that extreme qualities, even positive ones, can disrupt stability and hinder personal growth. The poem subtly implies that societal expectations placed upon those deemed exceptional can be overwhelming and ultimately detrimental to their well-being. By wishing for an "average of talents," the speaker hopes to shield the child from these potentially destructive pressures.

Theme 2: Defining Happiness on One's Own Terms

The poem also explores the theme of defining happiness on one's own terms. The speaker challenges the conventional notion that happiness is synonymous with beauty or extraordinary talent. Instead, the poem suggests that happiness can be found in the mundane, in the "dull" – if "dull" truly means a life free from the pressures of exceptionalism, a life where one is free to pursue happiness without the constraints of others' expectations. The final lines, "In fact, may you be dull— / If that is what a skilled, / Vigilant, flexible, / Unemphasised, enthralled / Catching of happiness is called," redefine happiness as a skill, a conscious effort of observation and adaptation, rather than a passive consequence of inherent qualities. This implies that happiness is not a gift, but something earned through mindful living.

Theme 3: Societal Expectations and Gender

A subtle but significant theme is the impact of societal expectations, particularly on women. The poem's address to a "lucky girl" isn't incidental. Larkin appears to recognize the societal pressures that women face, particularly regarding beauty and perceived worth. By wishing for ordinariness, the speaker hopes to protect the child from the judgment and objectification that often accompany extraordinary beauty or talent. The phrase "like other women" hints at a shared experience and a recognition of the challenges faced by women in navigating societal expectations. The poem, therefore, becomes a commentary on the societal pressures that can restrict a woman's pursuit of genuine happiness.

Recurring Imagery and the "Tightly-Folded Bud"

The image of the "Tightly-folded bud" is a potent symbol in the poem. It represents the child's potential and vulnerability at the beginning of life. While a bud typically symbolizes beauty and blossoming, in this context, it also carries a sense of fragility and the potential for being molded by external forces. The "tightly-folded" aspect suggests a protective state, reflecting the speaker's desire to shield the child from harm. The bud, therefore, serves as a visual reminder of the delicate balance between potential and vulnerability that the poem explores. Is the image also a constraint? Could Larkin also be saying to release yourself from the expectations placed upon you like a flower opening itself up to the sun?

Conclusion: A Paradoxical Blessing

In conclusion, "Born Yesterday" is a paradoxical blessing, offering an unconventional wish for a life of comfortable ordinariness. The poem challenges traditional notions of happiness and success, suggesting that genuine fulfillment can be found in a life free from the pressures of exceptionalism. By subverting expectations and embracing the mundane, Larkin offers a poignant commentary on societal pressures and the importance of defining happiness on one's own terms. The poem's significance lies in its recognition that true happiness is not a passive gift but an actively cultivated skill, available to those who dare to embrace the ordinary.