Bear and Falls
By James McIntyre
Strange incidents do happen ever
On the famed Niagara river,
This thought to mind it now recalls
Event three miles above the falls.
Thrilling ventures there abound,
A bear which weighed eight hundred pounds,
Hunters they do him discover
As he was swimming down the river.
They felt he would be glorious prize
This grand fat bear of mighty size,
Three men they jump'd into canoe,
A skilful and determined crew.
Soon alongside of him they row,
But kindly feelings he doth show,
Quick he scrambled o'er the boat side
For to enjoy a good boat ride.
And as o'er the side he straddles
They hit him on head with paddles,
But all in vain, so two of crew
A short time bade the bear adieu.
And soon they swiftly swam to shore,
But current down the river bore
Man, bear and boat, the sound appals
Of roaring mighty water falls.
But vigorous now he plys the oar,
In hopes to safely reach the shore,
But this made bear to grin and growl
And wear on brow a horrid scowl.
So poor man sore against his will
Finds that in boat he must keep still,
Or else be hugged to death by bear,
While sound of falls becomes more near.
But his two friends so brave and true
Row quick 'longside in a canoe,
And fire in bruin leaden balls,
Thus saving friend from bear and falls.
Poem Analysis:
James McIntyre's poem "Bear and Falls" captures a whimsical yet thrilling encounter on the Niagara River, merging themes of adventure, nature, and the interplay between humans and wildlife. The poem's humorous tone and vivid imagery create a captivating narrative that entertains while simultaneously reflecting on the wildness of nature.
Themes and Content
- Adventure and Nature: The poem opens with a sense of mystery and excitement, setting the stage for a strange incident that occurs on the iconic Niagara River. The reference to "strange incidents" immediately engages the reader's curiosity about the adventures that unfold, highlighting nature’s unpredictability.
- Human-Wildlife Interaction: The encounter between the hunters and the bear serves as the central conflict of the poem. The bear, initially perceived as a glorious prize, quickly transforms into a humorous character, showcasing the complexity of human-animal relationships. Instead of being a fearsome adversary, the bear becomes a comical figure, straddling the canoe and displaying "kindly feelings."
- Courage and Companionship: The camaraderie among the three hunters is evident as they attempt to capture the bear. Their collective bravery is put to the test when the situation escalates, emphasizing the theme of friendship and loyalty. The two friends who come to the rescue demonstrate the importance of teamwork in overcoming challenges.
- Humor and Absurdity: McIntyre employs humor throughout the poem, particularly in the bear’s unexpected behavior and the hunters' reactions. The image of a bear enjoying a boat ride and the comedic portrayal of the hunters trying to subdue it add a lighthearted tone to the narrative, transforming a potentially dangerous encounter into an absurd adventure.
- The Power of Nature: The looming presence of the Niagara Falls serves as a backdrop that heightens the tension in the poem. The "roaring mighty water falls" symbolize the uncontrollable force of nature, contrasting with the comical struggle of the hunters and the bear. This juxtaposition highlights the delicate balance between human endeavors and the wild.
Imagery and Symbolism
- Vivid Descriptions: McIntyre's use of vivid imagery brings the scene to life. Phrases like "eight hundred pounds," "glorious prize," and "roaring mighty water falls" create a dynamic visual experience, immersing the reader in the action. The description of the bear's reactions, such as his "horrid scowl," adds depth to his character.
- Symbolism of the Bear: The bear symbolizes both the allure and danger of nature. Initially, it represents the thrill of adventure, but as the situation escalates, it becomes a figure of unpredictability and potential peril. This duality reflects the complexities of engaging with the natural world.
- The Canoe as a Microcosm: The canoe serves as a microcosm for human vulnerability in the face of nature's might. While it represents adventure and exploration, it also highlights the precariousness of the situation, especially as the current threatens to carry them toward the falls.
Structure and Style
- Rhyme and Meter: The poem employs a consistent rhyme scheme and rhythmic pattern, contributing to its playful tone. This musical quality enhances the storytelling aspect, making it engaging and memorable.
- Narrative Style: McIntyre's narrative style captures the action and dialogue, immersing the reader in the unfolding drama. The conversational tone, particularly in lines like "they hit him on head with paddles," invites readers to join in the excitement of the adventure.
- Repetition and Contrast: The poet uses repetition to emphasize key moments, such as the rising tension as the bear and the sound of the falls draw nearer. The contrast between the bear's initial friendliness and his later aggressive demeanor adds to the poem's humor and unpredictability.
"Bear and Falls" by James McIntyre is a delightful exploration of adventure, humor, and the complexities of human-animal interactions set against the dramatic backdrop of the Niagara River. Through vivid imagery, engaging narrative, and a lighthearted tone, McIntyre captures the essence of a thrilling encounter that balances the absurdity of the situation with the awe-inspiring power of nature. The poem serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of the wild and the camaraderie that can be forged in the face of adventure, making it a timeless tale of bravery and humor.