Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

In "Sooey Generous," William Matthews offers an expansive and whimsical ode to pigs, weaving together historical, cultural, and religious references to explore the complex relationship humans have with these animals. The poem opens with an invocation to Saint Anthony, the patron of sausage makers, humorously setting the stage for a celebration of swine and those who care for them. Matthews immediately dives into vivid descriptions of the pig's life, from "piglets / doddering on their stilty legs" to sows "splayed to offer burgeoned teat to sucklers," capturing the earthy reality of pig farming.

The poem highlights the practical and beneficial aspects of pigs, noting their role in reinvesting nutrients into the soil through the "four to five tons of manure / a pig...reinvests / in the soil each year." Matthews's tone is both reverent and playful, as he details various historical practices involving pigs, such as the medieval Neapolitan custom of keeping pigs on a tether to scour household domains or the Roman practice of allowing pigs to forage the streets.

Matthews transitions to a discussion of cultural practices surrounding pigs, including the role of the "langueyers" or meat inspectors in Paris, who checked pigs for disease. He wryly notes that even the Buddha is said to have died from eating spoiled pork, a point often emphasized by vegetarians. The poem touches on the dietary restrictions in major religions, observing that both Judaism and Islam prohibit pork, possibly due to the desert origins of these religions, where pigs do not thrive.

The poet reflects on the practical aspects of pig consumption, noting that pigs "eat everything" and that cuisines honoring the pig discard nothing, promoting the concept of "whole hog" consumption. This comprehensive use of the pig underscores the sacral nature of the decision to eat or not eat pork. Matthews suggests that to fast, or abstain from eating pork, is a conscious, meaningful choice, distinct from mere starvation.

Historical references are abundant in the poem, including the story of Hernando de Soto introducing pigs to North America, where they became foundational to the country's development. The mention of Cincinnati as "Porkopolis" in the 1830s underscores the centrality of pigs to the American economy, highlighting their role in early manufacturing processes.

The poem continues with cultural anecdotes, such as the French custom of calling a pig "Monsieur" and the CIA's 1978 tally of Chinese pig populations, humorously suggesting they might all be called "The Chairman." Matthews even delves into classical mythology, referencing Emmaeus, the swineherd to Odysseus, who cared for a large number of pigs. He imagines these ancient pigs being treated with affection and dignity, suggesting that such care might make their meat "taste a little sweeter."

"Sooey Generous" is a rich tapestry that celebrates the pig's multifaceted role in human history, culture, and diet. Matthews skillfully blends humor with a deep respect for the animal, highlighting the contradictions and complexities in how pigs are viewed and treated. The poem explores themes of sustenance, industry, and the ethical considerations of animal husbandry, all while maintaining a light and engaging tone. Through his expansive and detailed narrative, Matthews invites readers to consider the profound and often overlooked significance of pigs in shaping human civilization and culture.

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