Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"1x1 (One Times One): 13" by E.E. Cummings is a poem that addresses the theme of disbelief or denial, even in the face of truth. The poem highlights how the subject, a "him" who remains unnamed, refuses to accept wisdom or warnings from various significant figures throughout history. The poem's tone is both ironic and critical, reflecting on the stubbornness of human nature and the eventual realization that comes too late.

The poem begins with a reference to "plato," the ancient Greek philosopher, who is known for his teachings on truth, reality, and the nature of the human soul. Despite Plato's reputation and authority, "he couldn't / believe it," indicating that the subject is either unable or unwilling to grasp the philosophical truths presented to him.

Next, the poem mentions "jesus," a central figure in Christianity, who "told him;he / wouldn't believe it." The subject's refusal to believe Jesus suggests a rejection of spiritual or moral guidance, further emphasizing his resistance to accepting any form of truth, even from figures of profound significance.

The inclusion of "lao / tsze," referring to Laozi (Lao Tzu), the ancient Chinese philosopher and founder of Taoism, adds another layer to the poem. Laozi's teachings emphasize simplicity, humility, and harmony with the Tao (the Way), yet the subject again rejects this wisdom.

The reference to "general (yes / mam) / sherman" brings the poem into a more modern and historical context. General William Tecumseh Sherman was a Union general during the American Civil War, known for his harsh tactics and the famous quote "War is hell." The subject's refusal to believe even Sherman suggests a disregard for practical, real-world truths and experiences, especially those related to conflict and human suffering.

Cummings then shifts to a more personal tone, noting that "even / (believe it / or / not)you / told him:i told / him;we told him." This inclusion of the reader, the poet, and a collective "we" highlights the universality of the subject's denial. Despite multiple warnings and truths presented by different people and cultures, the subject remains in denial, unwilling to accept reality.

The final lines of the poem reveal the consequence of this persistent denial: "it took / a nipponized bit of / the old sixth / avenue / el;in the top of his head:to tell / him." The phrase "nipponized bit" likely refers to something related to Japan, with "nipponized" possibly pointing to the influence or impact of Japanese forces during World War II. The "old sixth / avenue / el" refers to the Sixth Avenue elevated train line in New York City, which was dismantled in the 1930s. The image of something striking the "top of his head" suggests a sudden, violent event—possibly an air raid, bomb, or other destructive force—that finally forces the subject to confront reality.

The poem’s structure, with its broken lines and punctuation, mirrors the fragmented process of realization and the disjointed nature of the subject's thoughts as he resists and ultimately faces the truth.

In "1x1 (One Times One): 13," Cummings critiques the stubbornness and denial that can characterize human behavior, even in the face of undeniable truths. The poem suggests that while wisdom and warnings can come from many sources—philosophers, spiritual leaders, historical figures, and even ordinary people—there are some who refuse to listen until it is too late. The final image of a violent awakening serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of ignoring reality.

Copyright (c) 2025 PoetryExplorer

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...