Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"The Unknown Citizen" is a poem by Wystan Hugh Auden, first published in 1939. The poem is a satirical commentary on the nature of modern society, and the ways in which it can strip away our individuality and humanity.

The poem is structured as a kind of mock epitaph for a fictional citizen, identified only by his numerical code, who has supposedly lived a model life according to the standards of the state. The poem describes in detail the various ways in which the citizen has conformed to the expectations of society, from his adherence to the daily routine of work and leisure, to his participation in political and social activities.

One of the key themes of the poem is the idea of conformity and the ways in which it can stifle our individuality and creativity. Auden suggests that the pressures of modern society can force us to abandon our own unique identities and conform to a set of standardized norms and values.

Another important theme of the poem is the idea of dehumanization and the ways in which modern society can reduce us to mere cogs in a larger machine. Auden suggests that the emphasis on efficiency and productivity in modern life can lead us to lose sight of our own humanity and that of others, turning us into mere statistics rather than individuals with unique thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

The poem is also notable for its use of language and imagery. Auden uses dry and impersonal language to describe the life of the citizen, creating a sense of monotony and sameness that is characteristic of his writing. He also uses powerful images, such as the image of "the Press / Are convinced that he bought a paper every day / And that his reactions to advertisements were normal in every way" to capture the absurdity of the standards to which we are expected to conform.

Overall, "The Unknown Citizen" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that challenges us to think deeply about the nature of modern society and the ways in which it can shape our lives and our sense of self. Through its use of language and imagery, the poem invites us to consider the ways in which we can resist conformity and reclaim our individuality and humanity.

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