Poem Analysis - Base Words Are Uttered

Auden's Critique of Sincerity

W.H. Auden's "Base Words Are Uttered" is a short, sharp commentary on the difficulty of discerning genuine virtue from mere performance. The poem's tone is initially direct and almost cynical, suggesting a clear distinction between the 'base' and the 'noble.' However, this certainty quickly dissolves into a more nuanced and skeptical view, highlighting the deceptive nature of grand pronouncements. The poem ultimately questions the ease with which we assign value to language and the people who use it.

The Theme of Authenticity Versus Pretense

One of the central themes is the struggle to distinguish genuine authenticity from calculated pretense. Auden contrasts "base words," which are easily understood as emanating from "the base," with "noble platitudes." The poem suggests that while simple, straightforward language is easily recognized for what it is, lofty, seemingly virtuous pronouncements require intense scrutiny. This theme is developed through a shift in tone from initial certainty to a more skeptical questioning, forcing the reader to consider how easily they might be deceived by eloquent but hollow words.

The Symbolism of Language

Language itself functions as a key symbol in the poem. "Base words" and "noble platitudes" represent contrasting modes of expression and, by extension, different kinds of character. The "base words" symbolize unadorned truth, while "noble platitudes" embody potentially deceptive rhetoric. The poem suggests that the very nature of language allows for the masking of true intentions, turning grand pronouncements into a potential tool for manipulation. The phrase "careful scrutiny" implies the necessity of critical engagement with language, a skill needed to navigate the complexities of human interaction.

An Ambiguity in "Success"

The concluding line introduces a critical ambiguity: "From one that's base but merely has succeeded." What does "succeeded" mean in this context? Does it refer to social success, political power, or simply the ability to convince others? This open-endedness raises a question about the criteria by which we judge others. Is success an indication of inherent worth, or can it be achieved through mere artifice, even by those who are fundamentally "base"? The poem doesn't provide a definitive answer, leaving the reader to grapple with the unsettling possibility that appearances can be profoundly deceiving.

Final Reflections: The Challenge of Discernment

In conclusion, "Base Words Are Uttered" is a concise yet powerful meditation on the challenge of discerning genuine character. Auden's poem warns against the easy acceptance of lofty pronouncements and underscores the need for critical analysis. By highlighting the potential for deception inherent in language, the poem urges us to be vigilant in our assessments of others, acknowledging that true virtue is not always as self-evident as it may seem. The poem's enduring significance lies in its reminder that critical thinking is essential to navigate a world where appearances can often be misleading.