Poem Analysis - Somebody Has To

A Whimsical Call to Duty

Shel Silverstein's "Somebody Has To" is a lighthearted and charming poem that presents a fantastical yet relatable scenario. The poem's tone is whimsical and gently humorous, inviting the reader to consider the importance of seemingly mundane tasks. There's a subtle shift from a simple observation about dull stars to a call to action, adding a layer of purpose to the whimsical premise. This shift encourages the reader to consider responsibility and finding value in less glamorous work.

The Task No One Wants

One of the main themes explored in the poem is the theme of responsibility. The poem highlights the idea that even when tasks are unglamorous or undesirable, they still need to be done. The opening line, "Somebody has to go polish the stars," immediately establishes this theme, suggesting that no one particularly *wants* to do this job, but it's necessary to maintain a certain standard. The complaints of the "eagles and starlings and gulls" further emphasize this need for upkeep, even if it's not initially apparent.

Finding Value in the Mundane

Another significant theme is the theme of finding value in mundane tasks. Polishing stars is presented as a humble, perhaps even absurd, job. However, the poem subtly suggests that this task contributes to the overall beauty and order of the world. The fact that the birds are complaining about the tarnished stars indicates that the stars' appearance matters and affects their experience. This suggests that even seemingly insignificant actions can have a positive impact on others.

A Plea for Contentment

The poem also touches on the theme of contentment. The birds' desire for "new ones we cannot afford" highlights a common human tendency to always want more, even when what we have is perfectly adequate. The poem subtly encourages readers to appreciate what they have and to find satisfaction in maintaining and caring for it, rather than constantly striving for something new and unattainable. This connects to the earlier theme, finding value in the mundane.

Symbolism of the Stars

The stars themselves act as a central symbol in the poem. They can be interpreted as representing dreams, aspirations, or even the beauty of the world. Their dullness suggests that these things can become tarnished or neglected over time if they are not cared for. The act of polishing the stars, therefore, symbolizes the effort required to maintain these dreams, aspirations, and the beauty around us. The "rags" and "polishing jars" represent the tools and effort needed to restore and maintain these things.

A Sparkle of Hope

In conclusion, "Somebody Has To" is a deceptively simple poem with a profound message. Through its whimsical imagery and gentle tone, it reminds us of the importance of taking responsibility, finding value in mundane tasks, and appreciating what we have. The act of polishing the stars becomes a metaphor for the work required to maintain beauty, dreams, and aspirations in the world, ultimately suggesting that even the smallest efforts can make a difference. The poem leaves the reader with a sense of purpose and a renewed appreciation for the seemingly insignificant tasks that contribute to the overall brilliance of life.