Sylvia Plath

Natural History

Natural History - meaning Summary

High Mind Dethroned by Appetite

The poem satirically depicts an aloof intellectual ruler, the "Monarch Mind," who indulges in abstract philosophy and spiritual conversation while his subjects go hungry. Frustrated commoners unite to overthrow this detached sovereignty, cracking its crown and replacing it with the crude "Prince Ow." The poem addresses the conflict between elite thought and everyday life, suggesting a populist reversal that punishes impractical, self‑absorbed intellect.

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That lofty monarch, Monarch Mind, Blue-blooded in coarse contry reigned; Though he bedded in ermine, gorged on roast, Pure Philosophy his love engrossed: While subjects hungered, empty-pursed, With stars, with angels, he conversed Till, sick of their ruler's godling airs, In one body thsoe earthborn commoners Rose up and put royal nerves to the rack: King Egg-Head saw his domain crack, His crown usurped by the low brow Of the base, barbarous Prince Ow.

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