Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Edward Field’s poem "At the Coney Island Aquarium: An Ode for Ookie, the Older Walrus, or The Sibling Rival" is a heartfelt exploration of insecurity, sibling rivalry, and the desire for unconditional love. Through the character of Ookie, an older walrus at the aquarium, Field captures universal emotions of jealousy, loneliness, and the yearning for attention.

The poem begins by addressing Ookie directly, “Do not worry, sweet little walrus, about the superior cuteness / Of those two new babies they brought to share your pool.” Field’s empathetic tone sets up a compassionate perspective on Ookie’s plight. The description of the new baby walruses as possessing “superior cuteness” hints at the unspoken competition for attention and affection that often arises in sibling relationships.

Ookie’s response to the new arrivals is marked by insecurity and jealousy: “You keep pushing the twins out of the way / More concerned about keeping them from getting attention / Than having your own scrub-brush nose whiskers rubbed.” Rather than seeking affection for himself, Ookie is focused on preventing the twins from receiving any. Field’s choice of imagery, “scrub-brush nose whiskers,” paints a vivid picture of Ookie’s appearance, emphasizing his unique and endearing features.

Despite Ookie’s efforts, he cannot compete with the irresistible charm of twins. Field acknowledges this reality: “It is impossible of course to be more popular than twins.” Defeated, Ookie “sink[s] to the bottom and play[s] dead / Hoping our hearts break—mine does anyway.” This dramatic gesture reflects the depth of Ookie’s desperation and his longing for validation. The Keeper’s anxious observation suggests that Ookie’s plea for attention is not entirely futile.

However, this strategy is unsustainable, as “lungs cry for air and the heart for love.” The physical need for air becomes a metaphor for the emotional need for love and connection. Field advises Ookie not to seek “indiscriminate love from the many / As those two simple-minded children do,” recognizing the superficiality of widespread affection. Instead, he offers Ookie an alternative: “leap the railing right into my arms / And squirm there fishily always, Ookie, mine alone.”

Field’s invitation for Ookie to leap into his arms conveys a promise of unconditional love, offering Ookie a place where he can be cherished without competition. The phrase “squirm there fishily” acknowledges Ookie’s inherent awkwardness, yet it is precisely this awkwardness that makes Ookie endearing. By offering Ookie exclusivity and assurance of love, Field creates a tender, nurturing relationship between the speaker and the walrus.

Structurally, the poem is written in free verse, allowing Field to capture the conversational tone and fluidity of direct address. The lack of rigid structure mirrors the emotional spontaneity of the poem, enhancing the intimacy between the speaker and Ookie. The narrative arc moves from jealousy and despair to hope and reassurance, creating a compelling story of emotional growth.

In summary, "At the Coney Island Aquarium: An Ode for Ookie, the Older Walrus, or The Sibling Rival" is a poignant meditation on insecurity, sibling rivalry, and the need for unconditional love. Edward Field skillfully blends humor and empathy to create a narrative that is both whimsical and deeply relatable. Through the character of Ookie, Field captures universal emotions and offers a reassuring message of acceptance and belonging.

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