Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"W (VIVA): 30," also known as "i sing of Olaf glad and big," by E.E. Cummings, is a powerful and provocative poem that critiques the brutality of war, the conformity demanded by military institutions, and the moral courage of individuals who resist such demands. Through the story of Olaf, a conscientious objector, Cummings explores themes of pacifism, integrity, and the cost of standing against the status quo.

The poem opens with a celebration of Olaf, described as "glad and big," who possesses a "warmest heart" that instinctively recoils at the horrors of war. Olaf's refusal to participate in war, despite the pressures from his superiors, marks him as a conscientious objector—someone who opposes war on moral or religious grounds. Cummings immediately positions Olaf as a figure of integrity, whose moral compass guides his actions, even when faced with severe consequences.

Olaf's resistance begins when his "wellbeloved colonel," a "trig / westpointer most succinctly bred," takes him "in hand." The colonel, representing the military establishment, is described with language that conveys discipline and tradition, contrasting sharply with Olaf's nonconformity. Despite being subjected to the harsh treatment by "an host of overjoyed / noncoms"—noncommissioned officers who physically abuse him by knocking him on the head and forcing him through "icy waters"—Olaf remains steadfast in his refusal to comply.

The poem vividly describes the dehumanizing and brutal treatment Olaf endures at the hands of his fellow soldiers, who use "brushes recently employed / anent this muddy toiletbowl" to further humiliate him. This imagery underscores the indignities and violence that Olaf faces, as the military attempts to break his spirit and force him into submission.

Despite these relentless efforts, Olaf responds with unwavering defiance, famously declaring, "I will not kiss your fucking flag." This line is central to the poem, encapsulating Olaf's refusal to bow to the symbols of nationalism and militarism that demand his allegiance. His rejection of the flag—a potent symbol of national pride—highlights his deep moral conviction and his rejection of the violence that the flag represents in this context.

The reaction to Olaf's statement is one of grave concern, as "the silver bird" (possibly a reference to an officer or a symbol of authority) departs hurriedly, seemingly troubled by Olaf's defiance. The poem then details how various officers and soldiers, described as "a yearning nation's blueeyed pride," escalate their efforts to punish and break Olaf. They kick and curse him, and even resort to torturous methods, such as teasing his rectum with "bayonets roasted hot with heat." Yet, Olaf continues to resist, repeating, "there is some shit I will not eat." This line serves as another powerful declaration of his refusal to compromise his principles, even under extreme duress.

The poem reaches its tragic conclusion when Olaf's resistance reaches the ears of the president, who, upon being "duly notified," orders Olaf to be thrown into a dungeon, where he ultimately dies. Cummings presents this outcome with a bitter irony, highlighting the cruelty and injustice of a system that punishes those who dare to dissent from its demands.

In the final lines, Cummings reflects on Olaf's bravery, invoking Christ as a figure of mercy and compassion, and acknowledging that Olaf's actions were "more brave than me: more blond than you." This admission serves as a poignant recognition of Olaf's extraordinary courage, contrasting the average person's reluctance to stand up against overwhelming forces of authority and conformity.

Through "W (VIVA): 30," Cummings critiques the violence and inhumanity of war, while also celebrating the rare individuals like Olaf who have the moral courage to resist. The poem's raw language and graphic imagery underscore the brutal reality of what it means to stand up for one's beliefs in the face of an unyielding system. Ultimately, Cummings honors Olaf's memory as a martyr for peace, whose actions exemplify the highest form of bravery.

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