Poem Analysis - Polly In A Porny

A Whimsical Descent into the Absurd

Shel Silverstein's "Polly In A Porny" is a lighthearted and comical poem that takes a sudden, unexpected turn. The poem starts with innocent reminiscence, but quickly descends into the bizarre and absurd. Its tone is initially jovial and slightly suggestive, but then shifts into a state of bewildered fascination and borderline obsession. The poem thrives on the shock value of its central image and the narrator's enthusiastic, almost manic, reaction.

The Unlikely Muse: Confronting Unexpected Facets

One of the central themes of the poem is the discovery of hidden aspects of a person. The narrator believes he knows Polly, characterizing her as "quite a proper lady," implying a certain primness and conventionality. The shock and humor derive from the stark contrast between this perceived image and the reality of her appearing in an adult film. This unexpected revelation challenges the narrator's preconceived notions and forces him to confront a previously unknown, and perhaps more complex, side of Polly.

Fantasy, Taboo, and the Power of the Unexpected

The poem deals with themes of fantasy and taboo, and it does so in a way that renders them humorous, rather than sinister. The image of "Polly in a porny with a pony" is so outlandish that it borders on the surreal. This absurdity defuses any potential discomfort associated with the subject matter. The narrator's fascination suggests a desire to explore forbidden territories, but in a safe, vicarious manner. The taboo is softened and becomes a source of entertainment and obsession.

Embracing the Unconventional: The Narrator's Transformation

The poem touches upon the theme of acceptance and even celebration of the unconventional. Rather than being repulsed or judgmental, the narrator becomes enthralled by Polly's appearance in the film. He "keep[s] on going back," spends "each dime [he] can afford," and even envisions her winning an "academy award." This suggests a willingness to embrace the unexpected and to find pleasure in something that defies societal norms. The narrator’s willingness to explore his own fantasies is exemplified by his imagining different scenarios with the horse, "Was she gallopin' (no no no) oh was she trottin' (no no no)".

Recurring Imagery and the Unspeakable

The central image of "Polly in a porny with a pony" is the poem's most striking and recurring symbol. The pony, in particular, adds an element of absurdity and childlike innocence to the scene, further diluting any potential lewdness. The phrases "ride Polly ride slide Polly slide" serve as a potent image. The specific details of the adult film remain unspoken, leaving much to the imagination and allowing the reader to fill in the blanks with their own assumptions and projections. The ambiguity surrounding the precise nature of Polly's performance contributes to the poem's humor and its capacity to shock and titillate.

A Groovy Obsession

In conclusion, "Polly In A Porny" is a whimsical and entertaining poem that explores themes of unexpected discoveries, fantasy, and acceptance. Through its absurd imagery and the narrator's enthusiastic reaction, Silverstein challenges conventional notions of propriety and celebrates the joy of embracing the unconventional. The poem's lasting significance lies in its ability to find humor in the unexpected and to encourage readers to question their own assumptions about others.