Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Purist" is a poem written by Ogden Nash, an American poet known for his humorous and playful verse. The poem was first published in 1931 as part of Nash's collection "Hard Lines." The title of the poem suggests that it is a lighthearted exploration of the attitudes and behaviors of language purists.

Context:

The historical context of the poem is the early 20th century in America, a time when the country was undergoing significant social and cultural changes. The poem reflects Nash's playful and irreverent approach to poetry, as well as his skill in using language to create humorous and memorable images.

Content:

The poem consists of several stanzas, each consisting of varying numbers of lines. The speaker describes the attitudes and behaviors of language purists, using humor and exaggeration to create comic effect.

The speaker describes the purist as a "churlish chap" who insists on using proper grammar and pronunciation, even to the point of ignoring common usage. The speaker also uses humor to describe the purist's behaviors, such as their tendency to correct other people's language and their "phobia" of slang and colloquialisms.

Form:

The poem is written in a free verse style, with no strict meter or rhyme scheme. The use of short lines and frequent pauses contributes to the poem's playful and rhythmic tone, as well as its musical quality.

Poetic Elements:

The poem makes use of various poetic techniques and devices, including metaphor, imagery, and humor. The use of metaphor is particularly prominent, as the speaker compares the purist to a "churlish chap" and emphasizes their rigid and inflexible attitudes. The use of imagery also contributes to the poem's vivid and memorable descriptions, while the use of humor adds a playful and lighthearted tone to the poem.

Summary:

"Purist" can be seen as a humorous and playful exploration of the attitudes and behaviors of language purists, using language and poetic techniques to create comic effect. The poem reflects Nash's skill as a poet and humorist, and is a valuable contribution to the genre of humorous poetry. Its use of humor and vivid imagery make it a memorable and enjoyable read, while also highlighting the absurdity and rigidity of language purists.

Poem Snippet:

"A supercilious horde,

Bridling at demotic usage,

Considers common prose unspeakable,

And hails with gusto the language unimpeachable."

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...