Poem Analysis - Outsong In The Jungle

Introduction: A Jungle Curriculum

Rudyard Kipling's "Outsong In The Jungle" is a collection of interconnected verses, each acting as a lesson or benediction for a young cub navigating the complex world of the jungle and, metaphorically, life itself. The poem is imbued with a protective, almost parental tone, shifting between warnings and blessings. The overall mood is serious and cautionary, punctuated by moments of tenderness and hope for the cub's well-being. The collective voices of Baloo, Kaa, Bagheera, and a final chorus of "The Three" create a multi-faceted guide to survival and moral conduct.

Kipling's World: Imperialism and Animal Allegories

Rudyard Kipling wrote during the height of British Imperialism. His works often explored themes of law, order, and the relationship between civilization and the wild. The Jungle Book stories, from which this poem originates, used animal characters to allegorically represent human traits, societal structures, and the challenges of cultural integration. This poem can be interpreted as a commentary on the responsibilities of leadership and the preservation of established norms, even in the face of unpredictable circumstances. His perspective is complex and often debated, and understanding his time period is key to understanding his art.

Theme of Law and Order

One central theme is the importance of law and order, specifically the "Law the Man-Pack make." Baloo's verse emphasizes unwavering adherence to this law, regardless of its perceived fairness ("Clean or tainted, hot or stale"). This highlights the value placed on social cohesion and the dangers of straying from established norms. The repeated instruction to stay on the "Trail" and avoid deviating "neither left nor right" reinforces the necessity of discipline and obedience for survival and integration within the "Man-Pack." This echoes the colonial ideal of imposing a structured order onto perceived chaos.

Theme of Self-Preservation

Another key theme is the necessity of self-preservation, both physically and emotionally. Kaa's section is filled with practical advice on avoiding danger: "Send no lunge beyond thy length" and "Look thy den be hid and deep." These are not just instructions for a snake, but lessons in prudence and awareness of one's limitations. Bagheera's warnings against "Jackal-Men" and "tangled tree-cat trail" further emphasize the need for discernment and caution in choosing companions and paths. This theme speaks to the vulnerability of the individual and the importance of strategic thinking.

Theme of Guidance and Protection

Finally, the poem expresses a powerful theme of guidance and protection. The initial appeal to "him who showed One wise Frog the Jungle-Road" establishes a sense of ancestral wisdom being passed down. The phrases "Guard a cub from harm and scathe!" and "Jungle-Favour go with thee!" reiterate the protective wishes of the speakers. The repeated invocation of "Wood and Water, Wind and Tree" serves as a kind of blessing, connecting the cub to the natural world and invoking its benevolent forces. This theme underscores the deep concern and affection felt by the mentors for the cub's safety and success.

Symbolism of the Jungle

The jungle itself is a recurring symbol, representing not just a physical location but also the complexities and dangers of life. It is a place of both beauty and peril, requiring constant vigilance and adherence to unwritten rules. The "Flower blossoms red" mentioned in the final verse could be interpreted as both fire (a potential threat) and a symbol of civilization (the "Man" element), highlighting the ambivalent relationship between the cub and the human world. The constant references to natural elements like "Wood and Water, Wind and Tree" create a sense of grounding and connection to the primal forces of the world.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Lessons

"Outsong In The Jungle" serves as a multifaceted guide for navigating a challenging world. Through the voices of its animal mentors, Kipling delivers a powerful message about the importance of law, self-preservation, and seeking guidance from those who have come before. The poem's enduring appeal lies in its ability to translate universal life lessons into a compelling narrative set within the rich and evocative landscape of the jungle. It leaves us contemplating the balance between conformity and individuality, and the ever-present need for wisdom, strength, and courtesy in a world full of both beauty and danger.