Poem Analysis - The Man Who Could Write

A Cautionary Tale of Misguided Ambition

Rudyard Kipling's "The Man Who Could Write" is a sardonic and cautionary poem about ambition gone awry. The poem adopts a mocking tone, tracing the downfall of Boanerges Blitzen, a civil servant who mistakenly believes that his writing skills can propel him to success. The poem's mood shifts from initial optimism and Blitzen's self-assuredness to a sense of disillusionment and ironic pity as he faces the consequences of his actions. Kipling uses humor and pointed commentary to critique both Blitzen's naivete and the rigid hierarchies of the colonial system.

Kipling's Colonial Critique

Kipling, writing from his own experiences in British India, was deeply familiar with the colonial administration. This poem reflects a complex attitude towards it. While Kipling was often seen as a champion of the British Empire, this poem subtly critiques its rigid hierarchies and the limitations it placed on individuals. Blitzen's downfall isn't just about his own foolishness; it's also about a system that punishes dissent and prioritizes conformity over genuine talent or insight. The implied criticism highlights the stifling nature of the bureaucracy and its resistance to uncomfortable truths, even when those truths are evident to a perceptive observer.

The Perils of Unbridled Ambition and Naiveté

One of the central themes is the perils of unchecked ambition coupled with naiveté. Blitzen's fatal flaw is his belief that writing, in and of itself, is sufficient to achieve success. He fails to recognize the nuances of power, the importance of tact, and the consequences of challenging established authority. The poem demonstrates that ambition without wisdom or understanding can lead to ruin. His lack of understanding about the system dooms him. He falsely believes that because he can write well, he is entitled to a better position.

Truth and Its Consequences

The poem also explores the complex relationship between truth and its consequences. Blitzen prides himself on writing "the tactless truth," exposing "office scandals." However, Kipling suggests that truth, delivered without tact or strategic awareness, can be destructive. Blitzen's writing, though perhaps accurate, serves only to alienate his superiors and derail his career. The poem prompts us to consider whether the pursuit of truth is always justifiable, particularly when it comes at a personal cost and potentially undermines the stability of the existing order. The poem subtly explores how truth is contextual, and telling "the truth" in a colonial system can be a revolutionary act, which is punished.

Irony as a Weapon

Kipling uses irony as a central tool to convey his message. The initial description of Blitzen as a "dismal failure -- is a Might-have-been" immediately establishes a sense of dramatic irony. The reader knows from the outset that Blitzen's ambitions are doomed. Throughout the poem, Kipling employs situational irony, highlighting the discrepancy between Blitzen's expectations and his actual experiences. For example, Blitzen believes his writing will bring him fame and promotion, but it leads to reprimands and professional stagnation. The names mentioned "C-lv-n" and "L--l" are likely references to skilled satirists, further underscoring the level of writing ability that Blitzen lacks.

A Lasting Lesson in Humility

In conclusion, "The Man Who Could Write" is a sharp and insightful poem that uses the tragicomic tale of Boanerges Blitzen to explore themes of ambition, truth, and the complexities of colonial power. Through its ironic tone and vivid imagery, the poem serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of humility, tact, and understanding the social and political context in which one operates. Blitzen's lasting fate, languishing in a desolate district, serves as a stark reminder of the price of misguided ambition and the enduring power of established hierarchies.