Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

ATTACK OF THE SQUASH PEOPLE, by MARGE PIERCY Poet Analysis Poet's Biography

"Attack of the Squash People" is a satirical poem by Marge Piercy, first published in 1972 in her collection "Breaking Camp". The poem critiques the culture of conformity in suburban America by using the image of a vegetable garden and the invasion of squash. Piercy was known for her feminist and political poetry, and this poem is no exception, as it explores the themes of social pressure, conformity, and resistance.

Explanation:

The poem begins with a description of a peaceful vegetable garden, where everything is growing in harmony until the squash plants start to take over. The speaker describes the squash as "sneaky" and "prodigious", taking over the garden and pushing aside the other vegetables. The squash plants continue to grow and multiply, eventually covering the entire garden and even invading the neighbors' yards. The speaker describes the reaction of the neighbors, who are initially supportive and helpful, but eventually become alarmed and scared of the squash invasion. They begin to take extreme measures to rid themselves of the squash, using chemicals and even hiring a helicopter to spray their gardens. However, the squash continues to thrive, and the speaker notes that even when it is destroyed, the seeds remain, ready to sprout again.

Poetic Elements:

Form: The poem is written in free verse, with irregular line lengths and no consistent rhyme scheme. This form reflects the chaos and unpredictability of the squash invasion.
Imagery: Piercy uses vivid imagery to describe the squash plants and their takeover of the garden, such as "huge leaves" and "plump wet seeds". She also uses imagery to describe the neighbors' reactions, such as "smelling of chemicals" and "hiding inside".
Tone: The tone of the poem is satirical and humorous, but also critical and biting. Piercy uses humor to criticize the conformity and fear of suburban culture, while also highlighting the resistance of the squash plants.

Conclusion:

"Attack of the Squash People" is a satirical poem that uses the image of a vegetable garden to critique the culture of conformity in suburban America. Piercy employs vivid imagery and a satirical tone to highlight the resistance of the squash plants, and the extreme reactions of the neighbors. The poem ultimately suggests that conformity and social pressure are invasive forces, much like the squash plants, that can only be resisted through persistent growth and resilience.

Poem Snippet:

"Here come the squash.

Pattypan, yellow,

crookneck, straightneck,

zucchini like

green dolphins

the color of seaweed,

but striped with

lighter shades, spotted,

knobby, warty,

huge as a paint

can, its leaves