Poem Analysis - Porridge

A Whimsical Ode to Oats

Spike Milligan's "Porridge" is a brief, humorous poem that champions the humble breakfast staple. The poem adopts a lighthearted and slightly absurd tone, advocating for the erection of a monument to porridge. It's a playful and silly piece, meant to amuse rather than delve into deep philosophical questions. There are no substantial shifts in mood; it remains consistently whimsical from beginning to end.

Porridge as National Treasure

While there isn't a specific historical event directly linked to this poem, Spike Milligan's background as a comedian and writer known for his surreal and absurdist humor is highly relevant. His comedic style often involved elevating the mundane to the ridiculous, finding humor in the everyday. This poem fits perfectly within that framework, taking something as simple as porridge and imagining its grand recognition.

The Theme of Absurdity and National Pride

One of the primary themes is the absurdity of bestowing grand honors upon ordinary things. Milligan takes a common food item and proposes it deserves national recognition on par with historical figures or significant events. This absurdity is amplified by the idea of a monument "on a plinth in London," a place of importance. The poem also subtly touches upon the theme of national pride, specifically relating to Scotland. Mentioning "Porridge made in Scotland" hints at the cultural significance of this dish within that region. The final theme centers around the celebration of the mundane. Milligan elevates the everyday, encouraging the reader to find joy and value in the simple things.

Oatmeal, O.B.E.: A Humorous Symbol

The image of a statue of porridge is inherently comical, flying in the face of what is normally deemed worthy of memorialization. The line "Signed, 'Oatmeal, O.B.E.' (By a young dog of three)" is a particularly vivid and bizarre image. It serves as a symbol of the poem's overall silliness, with the dog's signature further highlighting the absurdity of the entire proposition. The "O.B.E." (Order of the British Empire) added to the "signature" pushes the humor further, suggesting the porridge deserves an official honor from the government.

A Final Serving of Silliness

"Porridge" is a delightful and intentionally ridiculous poem that highlights Spike Milligan's signature comedic style. It doesn't seek to convey a profound message but rather to elicit a smile through its playful absurdity. By advocating for a monument to porridge, Milligan celebrates the everyday and reminds us not to take everything too seriously, finding humor in the unexpected elevation of the commonplace.