Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Marriage Counsel" by John Updike is a playful and satirical poem that uses a humorous headline from the *Boston Herald* as a springboard to explore the skepticism and pitfalls of marriage. The poem is structured as a series of rhyming couplets, each raising questions about the wisdom of marrying for the sake of being married. Updike's use of light-hearted language and rhythm adds a whimsical tone to a subject that often bears significant emotional weight.

The poem begins with the headline: "WHY MARRY OGRE / JUST TO GET HUBBY?" This opening sets the tone for the rest of the poem, framing marriage as a potentially dubious bargain. The use of "ogre" to describe a prospective husband immediately introduces a sense of caution, suggesting that the partner in question might not be the most desirable choice.

Updike proceeds to interrogate the qualities of this hypothetical "ogre" with a playful curiosity:

- "Has he a brogue, or / Are his legs stubby?"

- "Smokes he a stogie?"

- "Is he not sober?"

- "Is he too logy / And dull as a crowbar?"

Each question humorously evaluates the suitability of the husband-to-be, emphasizing superficial or undesirable traits that might give someone pause. The use of archaic syntax ("Smokes he a stogie?") adds a whimsical, almost fairy-tale quality to the inquiry, enhancing the playfulness with which Updike approaches the topic.

The poem then shifts focus from the ogre-like husband to the general population of potential husbands—Tom, Dick, and Harry—whom Updike describes as "Garrulous, greedy, / And grouchy." This generalization suggests a pessimistic view of husbands, emphasizing negative traits that span from "savage to seedy." The description builds on the initial skepticism of the opening lines, broadening the critique to encompass men in general rather than just the undesirable "ogre."

Finally, Updike questions the motivation behind marrying such a man:

- "And, once wed, will parry / To be set asunder."

- "O harpy, why marry / Ogre? I wonder."

The use of "harpy" here interestingly shifts some focus onto the woman as a demanding or nagging figure, suggesting a dynamic where both parties may contribute to marital strife. The closing line, "Ogre? I wonder," encapsulates the entire poem's contemplative humor, leaving the reader with a rhetorical question about the wisdom of entering into marriage under questionable pretenses.

Overall, "Marriage Counsel" by John Updike is a lighthearted, satirical take on the considerations and perhaps misconceptions that lead to marriage. Through clever rhyming and playful language, Updike encourages a reflective look at the reasons for marrying, ultimately suggesting that marrying simply "to get hubby" might not be the most thought-out decision. The poem's tone and structure provide an entertaining yet critical commentary on the institution of marriage.

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