Poem Analysis - If I Had A Brontosaurus

A Whimsical Exploration of Naming and Change

Shel Silverstein's "If I Had A Brontosaurus" is a lighthearted and playful poem that centers on the simple act of naming a pet dinosaur. The poem's tone is whimsical and humorous, shifting from an initial sense of straightforward decision-making to a surprising realization about potential parenthood. Its brevity belies a subtle exploration of identity and adaptation in the face of unexpected circumstances. Ultimately, it's a charming meditation on how names, like life, can be subject to change.

Naming Conventions and Gender Expectations

The poem's core revolves around the act of naming. The speaker initially suggests two seemingly masculine names, "Morris or Horace," reflecting a preconceived notion about the dinosaur's identity. This establishes an expectation of the brontosaurus being male. However, the unexpected arrival of baby brontosauruses (plural), implies that the original dinosaur is female. This leads to the speaker changing the name to "Laurie," a name often associated with females, highlighting the impact of perceived gender on naming conventions. The change reflects a common societal tendency to categorize and identify individuals based on gender.

The Theme of Unexpected Parenthood and Identity Shift

One of the central themes of the poem is the unforeseen reality of parenthood and its impact on identity. The speaker, initially focused on simply naming a pet, is suddenly confronted with the possibility of the brontosaurus becoming a parent. This unexpected shift forces a reevaluation of the dinosaur's identity and necessitates a name change. The name “Laurie” implies the dinosaur now fulfills a maternal role, suggesting that its primary identity has become that of a parent. The poem subtly captures the disruptive yet transformative nature of unexpected parenthood, showing how it can redefine not only the parent's identity but also how they are perceived by others.

Symbolism of the Brontosaurus and its Offspring

The brontosaurus itself can be seen as a symbol of something large, unwieldy, and perhaps even overwhelming. The arrival of "a lot of little brontosauri" amplifies this sense of being overwhelmed, representing the immense responsibility and life-altering impact of raising children. The "little brontosauri" also symbolize potential, growth, and the continuation of life. The image of numerous baby dinosaurs further emphasizes the magnitude of change the speaker imagines. The contrast between the singular, manageable brontosaurus and the multitude of offspring underscores the transformation from simple pet ownership to the complexities of parenthood.

Concluding Thoughts: Flexibility in the Face of Change

In conclusion, "If I Had A Brontosaurus" is a deceptively simple poem that explores complex themes of naming, gender expectations, and the impact of unexpected parenthood. Through its whimsical tone and vivid imagery, Silverstein encourages us to consider the fluidity of identity and the importance of adapting to change. The poem's lasting significance lies in its gentle reminder that life, like a dinosaur's name, is subject to evolution and transformation, and that embracing these shifts can lead to unexpected and perhaps delightful new beginnings. Is the name "Laurie" truly fitting, or is it a humorous commentary on societal expectations that we should take with a grain of salt?