Poem Analysis - The Post That Fitted

A Comic Tale of Deception and Social Climbing

Rudyard Kipling’s "The Post That Fitted" is a darkly humorous narrative poem that tells the story of Sleary, a man driven by ambition and a desire for financial security. The poem employs a lighthearted, almost cynical tone to depict Sleary's calculated manipulation of social expectations and relationships. The mood is generally comedic, but with an undercurrent of biting social commentary, particularly regarding the pragmatism of marriage within certain social strata. The poem's clever rhyme scheme and fast-paced storytelling contribute to its overall entertaining and slightly unsettling effect.

Sleary's Calculated Pragmatism

One of the central themes of the poem is the cynical pragmatism surrounding marriage and social mobility. Sleary's initial engagement to Carrie is presented as a matter of affection, but his subsequent pursuit of Minnie Boffkin, driven by her family's wealth and influence, reveals a more self-serving motive. The poem suggests that marriage in this social context is often a strategic alliance rather than a purely romantic union. The Boffkins, for instance, are fully aware that Minnie may struggle to find another match, highlighting the practical considerations influencing their decision to accept Sleary despite his modest means.

Deception as a Tool for Advancement

The theme of deception is also prominent. Sleary's faked epileptic fits are a blatant act of manipulation, used to escape a marriage he no longer desires. This act highlights the lengths to which individuals may go to achieve their goals, even if it means sacrificing integrity. The poem does not explicitly condemn Sleary's actions, instead presenting them with a detached amusement, leaving the reader to ponder the moral implications of his behavior. The shaving stick detail, while humorous, underscores the deliberate and calculated nature of Sleary's performance.

Social Commentary on Class and Ambition

Kipling's poem offers a subtle but sharp social commentary on the rigid class structures and the pressures of ambition. Sleary's desire for a "billet" that pays enough for him to marry underscores the importance of financial stability in securing social status. The poem subtly criticizes a society where marriage is often viewed as a means of upward mobility, and where individuals are willing to engage in deception to achieve their aspirations. Mrs. Boffkin's vengeful patience at the end suggests a lingering bitterness towards Sleary's social climbing, highlighting the resentment that can arise from such calculated maneuvers.

Symbols of Deception and Manipulation

The shaving stick used to simulate epileptic fits acts as a symbol of Sleary’s deception. It is a mundane object that is transformed into a tool for manipulation, highlighting the everyday nature of dishonesty. The "epileptic fits" themselves become a symbol of Sleary's willingness to exploit vulnerability and play on the sympathies of others to achieve his desired outcome. The "warning letter" from Mrs. Boffkin to Carrie becomes a symbol of lasting bitterness and foreshadows the potential consequences of Sleary’s deception, as it is implied that his children may potentially suffer the same fate as Sleary's faked illness.

Conclusion: A Morally Ambiguous Comedy

"The Post That Fitted" is a morally ambiguous comedy that explores themes of pragmatism, deception, and social ambition. Through its lighthearted tone and clever narrative, Kipling presents a cynical view of marriage and social climbing in a society where financial security often trumps genuine affection. The poem's enduring appeal lies in its ability to entertain while simultaneously prompting reflection on the complexities of human motivation and the moral compromises individuals may make in pursuit of their goals. The final image of Mrs. Boffkin waiting for the Sleary babies to develop fits leaves the reader with a lingering sense of unease, suggesting that the consequences of Sleary's actions may extend far beyond his own immediate happiness, and serves as a reminder that deception rarely comes without a price.