Poem Analysis - Examination

A Whimsical Diagnosis: Introduction

Shel Silverstein's "Examination" is a lighthearted and absurd poem that takes a humorous approach to a common childhood experience: visiting the doctor. The poem quickly establishes a playful tone, focusing on the ridiculousness of the doctor's findings rather than any actual medical concern. The mood remains consistently whimsical throughout, never veering into seriousness or alarm. Its simple language and outlandish imagery contribute to its overall charm and accessibility.

The Absurdity of Consumption: Theme of Unhealthy Habits

One central theme of the poem is the absurdity of unhealthy eating habits, taken to a literal and comical extreme. The doctor's examination uncovers not food, but inanimate objects: "a shoe," "a little toy boat," "a skate," and "a bicycle seat." This list represents things a child would never consume, highlighting the ridiculousness of the situation. The poem gently mocks the parental (and perhaps societal) concern over what children put in their mouths, pushing the worry to an impossible and therefore humorous conclusion. The image of pulling these items out of someone's throat is inherently funny, illustrating the lengths to which anxiety about consumption can go.

Responsibility and Caution: The Weight of Actions

The poem also explores a subtle theme of responsibility for one's actions. The doctor's final instruction, "Be more careful / About what you eat," implies that the speaker is at fault for the objects found in their throat. While humorous, this statement suggests that individuals are responsible for the things they "consume," whether literally or metaphorically. The objects extracted could be seen as symbolic of choices made and the consequences that follow. This interpretation invites the reader to consider the implications of their own choices, encouraging a sense of self-awareness in a roundabout way.

A Gateway to the Imagination: Symbolism and Imagery

The objects found within the patient – shoe, boat, skate, bicycle seat – are not just random items; they are all objects of childhood play and imagination. The shoe might represent exploration, the boat adventure, the skate freedom, and the bicycle seat independence. Their presence within the patient suggests that the child's imagination and sense of wonder are being "consumed" or internalized. The ambiguity arises from whether this consumption is positive or negative. Are these items nourishing the child's inner world, or are they being literally swallowed and thus hindering their growth? Perhaps the poem playfully suggests that a healthy imagination also needs boundaries and direction.

Concluding Reflection: A Playful Warning

In conclusion, "Examination" is a deceptively simple poem that uses humor and absurd imagery to explore themes of unhealthy habits, responsibility, and the power of imagination. While the poem is lighthearted, it also offers a gentle reminder to be mindful of what we "consume," both literally and metaphorically. Silverstein's poem ultimately champions the importance of balance and thoughtful choices in navigating the world, wrapped within a package of child-like whimsy and memorable imagery.