Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Charles Olson?s "Who" is a sharp and sardonic commentary on societal behavior, expressed with the brevity and precision of an epigram. The poem critiques a certain group of people—referred to as "a decadent people"—through the contrast between their physical actions and their intellectual dispositions. Its tone is simultaneously critical and ironic, underscoring a disconnect between external appearance and internal engagement.

The phrase "A decadent people" establishes a judgmental tone from the outset. The term "decadent" suggests moral or cultural decline, often associated with excess, self-indulgence, or a detachment from meaningful purpose. Olson’s description positions this group as one that has moved away from vigor, authenticity, or perhaps ethical integrity. The language suggests societal stagnation, with decadence implying an overemphasis on surface-level concerns.

The assertion that "they fight with their feet" introduces an image of disjointed or misplaced effort. Fighting with one?s feet could be interpreted as a literal clumsiness or an inability to engage with issues in a meaningful way. More metaphorically, it might suggest a reliance on physicality or reactive movements rather than thoughtful deliberation. The juxtaposition of physical "fighting" and the intellect ("their minds") sets up a critique of misplaced priorities or superficial engagement.

The phrase "but their minds thank god for them they?re so neat" is laden with irony. On the surface, it appears to praise their mental clarity or tidiness, but in context, this neatness could be a symptom of intellectual detachment or oversimplification. The "neatness" of their minds might signify an over-reliance on order and convention at the expense of deeper critical thought or moral complexity. The insertion of "thank god for them" adds a layer of sarcasm, as though Olson is highlighting the absurdity of celebrating such qualities in a people whose actions are chaotic or ineffective.

The poem can be read as a critique of a society that prioritizes appearance, superficial neatness, or conformity over substantive engagement with issues. The "fighting with their feet" could symbolize a society that is reactive, moving without direction or purpose, while the "neat" minds suggest an illusion of order that fails to address underlying decay. The combination of physical disorder and intellectual sterility points to a broader cultural malaise.

Structurally, the poem’s brevity mirrors its sharpness. Olson uses a conversational tone, enhanced by the ironic "thank god for them," to engage the reader directly. The lack of elaboration invites interpretation, leaving space for readers to project their own understanding of who these "decadent people" might be. The terseness of the poem mirrors its subject, suggesting that the neatness and simplicity Olson critiques are reflected in the poem?s own construction.

In essence, "Who" is a critique of societal decline framed through the interplay of physicality and intellect. It challenges readers to consider how appearances and actions can mask deeper dysfunctions, using irony and brevity to deliver its message with biting clarity. Olson?s commentary resonates beyond its immediate context, serving as a timeless observation of human and cultural behavior.

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