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"Ivory" by Simon Armitage is a succinct yet impactful poem that plays with language to deliver a message about truth and authenticity. The poem employs a variety of terms and phrases associated with falsehood, exaggeration, or nonsense to emphasize a commitment to purity and honesty.

The poem begins with a decisive rejection of all forms of deceit and trickery. Phrases such as "no more mularkey," "no baloney," and "no more cuffuffle or shenanigans" set the tone for a call to end all forms of dishonesty and foolishness. The use of colloquial and somewhat humorous language makes the poem accessible and engaging, while also highlighting the absurdity and omnipresence of insincerity in daily life.

Armitage employs a global perspective on the theme of falsehood, as suggested by the inclusion of "niet dobra," a phrase that seems to mix different languages to denote 'not good.' This inclusion broadens the poem's scope, suggesting that the rejection of dishonesty is a universal ideal.

The poem’s structure, with its repetition of "no more" and the listing of various forms of deceit, creates a rhythmic and emphatic effect. This repetition reinforces the poet's strong stance against all that is inauthentic and false.

The penultimate line, "from this point forward it's ninety-nine and forty-four hundredths / per cent pure," is particularly striking. This specific and somewhat odd percentage might be a reference to advertising claims of purity, often used in the context of soap or similar products, thereby suggesting that what follows will be untainted by falsehoods.

The final line, "And no remarks from the peanut gallery," humorously dismisses any trivial or irrelevant comments. This line serves as a closing statement that reinforces the poem’s call for sincerity, while also reflecting the poet's awareness that such a stance might provoke reactions from skeptics or cynics.

Overall, "Ivory" is a playful yet profound meditation on the desire for truth and integrity in a world often clouded by falsehoods. Armitage's use of language is both entertaining and thought-provoking, prompting readers to reflect on the value of honesty in their own lives.


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