Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

In "Sending Message," Allen Ginsberg offers a scathing critique of contemporary American society, targeting its hypocrisies and the messages it sends to its youth through various media, institutions, and societal norms. The poem is a tapestry of sardonic observations, cultural references, and biting commentary on the dissonance between public messages and private realities.

Ginsberg begins by addressing the mixed messages sent about drug use. While "smoking medical marijuana’s all right" reflects a growing acceptance of cannabis for medicinal purposes, he contrasts this with the glorification of smoking in media, particularly through advertisements that appeal to children. The image of "hard-ass blokes" who "smoke Camels at the bar" becoming idols for five-year-olds highlights the manipulation inherent in advertising and its impact on impressionable minds.

The poet extends this critique to governmental hypocrisy, specifically referencing the CIA’s alleged involvement with Contra coke dealers, a scandal covered by major newspapers like the New York Times and Washington Post. This, juxtaposed with the portrayal of crackheads, underscores the dissonance between public denials and the reality of covert operations. Ginsberg’s repetition of "They’re sending a message" underscores the pervasive nature of these misleading communications.

Ginsberg then shifts his focus to economic and environmental concerns, mocking the glorification of fossil fuel consumption. By listing brands like "Bronco, Honda, 4 by 4, cinema MG, Land Rover & half million gas stations," he satirizes the American obsession with vehicles and the cultural message that such consumption is desirable and admirable. This consumerist mentality is shown to be deeply ingrained, influencing even the youngest generations, as evidenced by the attitudes of "valley girls" driven to high school by their fathers.

The poem’s tone becomes even more critical as Ginsberg addresses global issues. He mentions the indifference toward African starvation and the futility of American military interventions. The "politically unpopular" wars are criticized for being motivated by economic interests rather than genuine concern for human life. The sarcastic assurance that "our boys’ll never die" in such conflicts highlights the detachment and selfishness of those in power.

Ginsberg’s critique of corporate and media influence continues with references to fast food and consumer culture. Brands like McDonald's and Amazon Treeburgers are emblematic of the commodification of nature and the spread of American consumerism worldwide. The line "Eat your meat or beat your meat, safe sex with ketchup" combines humor and vulgarity to underscore the reduction of complex human experiences to consumer choices and instant gratification.

The poet also lambasts political and religious hypocrisy, referencing figures like General Rios-Montt, Pat Robertson, and Jesse Helms. These individuals are depicted as sending messages of intolerance, violence, and materialism under the guise of religious and moral authority. The imagery of "Christ’s military pistol machete machinegun baseball bat & Inerrant Bible" juxtaposes sacred and violent symbols, critiquing the use of religion to justify oppression and cruelty.

In the closing lines, Ginsberg expresses his frustration with the overwhelming power of these messages, which perpetuate inequality and stifle dissent. The concluding directive to "Shut the fuck up" captures the poet’s exasperation with a society that marginalizes voices of compassion and critical thought.

"Sending Message" is a powerful and provocative poem that challenges readers to question the dominant narratives and the underlying messages being communicated by various societal forces. Ginsberg’s use of humor, irony, and vivid imagery makes his critique both engaging and thought-provoking, encouraging a deeper reflection on the values and priorities of contemporary culture.

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