Poem Analysis - Granny

A Whimsical Storm and a Hapless Granny

Spike Milligan's "Granny" is a lighthearted and comical poem that depicts an old woman caught in the throes of a ferocious windstorm. The poem starts with a focus on Granny's discomfort, then widens to encompass the general chaos caused by the wind, before ultimately returning to Granny's unfortunate predicament. Its tone is humorous and absurd, employing exaggeration and silly imagery to create an amusing picture of blustery weather. The poem uses simple language and repetitive structures for a playful effect, making it accessible and engaging.

Context and the Comic Tradition

Spike Milligan was a British-Irish comedian, writer, musician, poet, and playwright, renowned for his absurdist humor and role in *The Goon Show*. Milligan's comedic style often embraced the ridiculous and defied conventional norms. Knowing this context illuminates the poem "Granny." It fits perfectly into his tradition of silly, often nonsensical verse that aims to entertain through exaggerated scenarios and a disregard for logic. The poem doesn't aim for deep philosophical insights; instead, it seeks to tickle the funny bone through its sheer absurdity.

The Overpowering Force of Nature and Human Inconvenience

One of the main themes is the overpowering force of nature, represented by the wind. The poem illustrates the wind's might through the various disruptions it causes. It is not simply a gentle breeze, it “nearly made the vicar curse” and causes structural damage. This immense power is juxtaposed with the inconvenience it causes to humans. Instead of profound devastation, the focus is on a steeple falling, a wig blowing off, and Granny getting wind up her nose, minimizing the threat and heightening the comedic effect.

Vulnerability and the Humorous Plight of Age

Another theme subtly present in the poem is vulnerability, particularly that associated with age. Granny is the prime target of the wind, suffering its effects more directly than anyone else. This suggests a certain frailty and lack of defense against the elements. However, Milligan avoids sentimentality. Granny's vulnerability is not presented as a tragedy but as a source of humor. The phrase "poor old Granny" evokes a degree of sympathy, but the exaggerated descriptions of the wind invading her orifices prevent the poem from becoming somber.

Chaos, Absurdity and the Comedic Symbolism of the Wind

The image of the wind is central, functioning not just as a literal force of nature but also as a symbol of chaos and absurdity. It attacks everyone indiscriminately: "man, beast, nun, priest." The wind is the catalyst for all the nonsensical events in the poem, from blowing a wig off to assaulting Granny's nose. The image of the wig flying off Auntie Fanny's head is particularly vivid. This comical visual underscores the overall absurdity of the situation, reminding us of the poem's playful spirit. Perhaps the nose can also be interpreted as being one of the more private parts of the human body, therefore, it can be asked whether the wind blowing up Granny's nose is suggestive of another form of the invasion.

Final Thoughts: A Playful Breeze of Nonsense

In conclusion, "Granny" is a delightful and whimsical poem that exemplifies Spike Milligan's comedic style. It's not a profound exploration of existence, but a playful romp through a windy night, centered around an unfortunate old woman. The poem cleverly uses imagery, exaggeration, and absurdity to create a humorous effect, highlighting the power of nature while simultaneously diminishing its threat through silly scenarios. The poem's enduring appeal lies in its simple language, relatable characters, and ability to evoke a chuckle from readers of all ages.