Poem Analysis - The Necessitarian

A Celebration of the Unseen God of Laughter

Rudyard Kipling's "The Necessitarian" is an ode to a mysterious power responsible for both the profound joy and the absurd ironies of life. The poem explores the source of overwhelming laughter, attributing it to a force as potent and fundamental as the creator of the universe. The tone is initially inquisitive and reverent, shifting to a more assertive and conclusive declaration of this power's omnipresence. While acknowledging the absence of formal recognition for this "god" of mirth, the poem insists on its undeniable influence on both grand cosmic designs and simple, everyday jokes.

The Pervasive Power of Mirth's Architect

One of the central themes of the poem is the universality of power. Kipling posits that the force behind uproarious laughter is no different from the force that created planets and roses. This suggests that seemingly trivial moments of joy are just as significant and divinely inspired as the grand acts of creation. The poem bridges the gap between the mundane and the miraculous, suggesting that both are manifestations of the same underlying power. The phrase "selfsame Power" is repeated for emphasis, ensuring that the reader understands that no activity or emotion exists outside this influence.

Imagery of Overwhelming Joy

The poem utilizes vivid imagery to depict the intensity of laughter. Phrases like "streaming eyes" and "grovellings on the ground" paint a picture of unrestrained, physical mirth. The line "Laughter, voiceless through excess" captures the feeling of being so overcome with amusement that one loses the ability to speak. This imagery emphasizes the all-consuming nature of this laughter, positioning it as a force that can completely overwhelm the individual. The "midriff's deep distress" suggests the physical strain of such intense laughter, highlighting its powerful impact on the body.

The Sacredness of the Absurd

Another prominent theme is the sacredness of the absurd. Kipling elevates the unexpected and the nonsensical, suggesting they are not random occurrences but rather carefully orchestrated by a higher power. The poem references "Shrieking Circumstance" and "The Sacredly Absurd," indicating that these moments of bizarre coincidence and unexpected humor are intentional and divinely ordained. This challenges traditional notions of divinity, suggesting that the source of joy can be found not only in solemnity but also in the chaotic and unpredictable aspects of life.

An Unnamed, Yet Undeniable Force

The poem's recurring symbol is the unnamed power itself. This deliberate lack of identification reinforces the idea that this force operates outside the boundaries of conventional religion and understanding. While no church or creed recognizes this "Lord" of laughter, the poem insists on its undeniable presence in the world. This ambiguity invites readers to contemplate the nature of joy and humor, suggesting that it may stem from a source more profound and mysterious than we typically acknowledge. Is this "Necessitarian" simply another name for fate, or something else entirely?

Final Insights

In conclusion, "The Necessitarian" is a thought-provoking exploration of the source of human joy. Kipling argues that a powerful, yet unnamed force is responsible for both the grandeur of creation and the simple pleasures of laughter. By elevating the absurd and celebrating the overwhelming nature of mirth, the poem encourages us to recognize the divine in the everyday and to appreciate the profound significance of laughter in our lives. The poem leaves us with a sense of wonder and a renewed appreciation for the mysterious forces that shape our experiences.