Poem Analysis - Cain And Abel

A Twisted Morality Tale

Rudyard Kipling's "Cain and Abel" offers a stark and cynical retelling of the biblical story, moving it from a divine judgment of sin to a critique of human nature and the complexities of justice. The poem employs a ballad-like structure and folksy language, initially creating a simple, almost comedic tone. However, this lightness gives way to a darker, more ambiguous mood as the narrative progresses, challenging the reader's conventional understanding of right and wrong. Ultimately, the poem leaves us questioning the fairness of divine judgment and pondering the justifications for violence born from scarcity and perceived injustice.

The Green-Eyed Monster of Resource Control

One of the central themes is the destructive nature of greed and the hoarding of resources. Cain's sophisticated irrigation system and control over the Euphrates River become symbols of his selfish ambition. He prioritizes his corn crop above the survival of Abel's cattle, demonstrating a ruthless disregard for the well-being of others. This hoarding isn't just about economic gain; it's about power and control. The poem suggests that such control, when unchecked, can lead to devastating consequences, not only for the victims of the greed but also for the perpetrator, ultimately leading to violence and isolation.

Survival of the Fittest: A Darker Shade of Brotherly Love

The poem also explores the theme of brotherhood betrayed by competition. The initial setup suggests a natural division of labor: Cain farms, Abel raises cattle. However, the drought reveals the inherent inequality and vulnerability in Abel's pastoral lifestyle. When faced with the potential loss of his livelihood, Abel pleads with Cain, emphasizing their familial bond ("my brother dear," "my brother true"). Cain's repeated "No!" underscores the complete breakdown of empathy and the prioritization of self-interest over brotherly obligation. This betrayal highlights the fragility of human relationships when put to the test by scarce resources and the instinct for survival. The shift from "brother dear" to a violent confrontation emphasizes the devastating consequences of this ruptured bond.

Justice With a Blindfold and a Chip on its Shoulder

Kipling's poem challenges the notion of divine justice by presenting a decidedly biased perspective. The final couplet, "But, seein' all he had had to bear, / I never could call the Judgment fair!" reveals the speaker's sympathy for Cain. This is a deliberate subversion of the traditional biblical narrative, where Cain is unequivocally condemned for his act of fratricide. The poem suggests that Cain's actions, while undeniably violent, were at least partially motivated by the perceived injustice of Abel's "Hell-hoofin' over my cucumbers!" and the perceived entitlement of Abel. The ambiguity surrounding the definition of "fair" in this context invites the reader to question the nature of justice and the complexities of judging human behavior within the context of scarcity and conflict.

Blood in the Mud: Imagery of Violence and its Aftermath

The poem employs vivid imagery to depict the violence and its aftermath. The "hot red Sun" between the brows of the thirsty herd-bulls foreshadows the violence to come, while also symbolizing the desperation driven by the drought. The image of Abel spilling "Euphrates out on the plain" is powerful, representing both a life-giving act and a transgression against Cain's property. However, the most striking image is that of the "Red Mud" stained with Abel's blood, where the herd-bulls "horned an' pawed." This image emphasizes the brutal reality of the murder and its primal impact on the animal world. The sudden departure of the herd for the "Land of Nod" underscores the disruption of the natural order and the profound consequences of Cain's act. The color red is clearly used to portray sin, passion, and the bloody repercussions that follow.

A Final Verdict of Ambiguity

In conclusion, Kipling's "Cain and Abel" offers a provocative and unsettling reinterpretation of a classic biblical tale. By shifting the focus from divine judgment to human motivations, the poem explores themes of greed, betrayal, and the complex nature of justice. The poem’s ending challenges the reader to confront the uncomfortable possibility that even acts of violence can be understood, if not excused, within the context of scarcity and perceived injustice, and leaves the audience wondering if justice, even divinely dispensed, is always as objective and unbiased as is often assumed.