Wild Goose Shot
At Midnight, November, 1888
By James McIntyre
From the regions of the north
Where the waters now are frozen,
Towards the south they issue forth
A flock of wild geese of four dozen.
But when they flew o'er the river Thames
They swooped down to take a dive,
But sport with shot gun at them aims
And one at least did not survive.
And he now says it tasted fine,
And that it was both fat and big,
A hungry man did on it dine,
Satisfied with just one leg.
He was sorry fowl to kill,
But they awoke him from his slumber,
The air with cackle they did fill,
And thus they lost one of their number.
Poem Analysis:
"Wild Goose Shot" by James McIntyre is a poem that blends a narrative about a hunting episode with reflections on the consequences of human actions on wildlife. The poem offers insights into themes such as nature, survival, and the ethical implications of hunting.
Themes Explored
- Nature and Migration: The poem begins with the depiction of wild geese migrating from the frozen northern regions to the south. This migration is a natural and instinctual behavior, highlighting the geese's journey to find warmer climates and sustenance. The mention of the frozen waters and the flock of geese underscores the harshness of the northern climate and the necessity for the geese to seek more hospitable environments.
- Human Intervention and Hunting: The poem shifts to a scene where the geese encounter human intervention. The act of swooping down to the Thames for a dive, only to be met with a shotgun, introduces the theme of hunting and its impact on wildlife. The shot that kills one of the geese serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of animals to human activities. The hunter's satisfaction with the meal derived from the goose contrasts with the loss of life, posing ethical questions about the necessity and morality of hunting.
- Regret and Reflection: Despite the hunter's satisfaction with his meal, there is a sense of regret and reflection. The hunter acknowledges feeling sorry for killing the fowl, especially since the geese had awakened him with their cackling. This ambivalence suggests a deeper awareness of the interconnectedness between humans and animals and the impact of human actions on the natural world. The poem subtly critiques the casual disruption of nature's course for human convenience and pleasure.
Stylistic Analysis
- Simple and Direct Language: McIntyre employs straightforward language and a clear narrative style to convey the events and themes of the poem. This simplicity allows the reader to easily follow the story while reflecting on its broader implications. The directness of the language also serves to emphasize the stark realities of the natural world and human intervention.
- Rhyming Structure: The poem's rhyming structure (ABAB) provides a rhythmic quality that enhances its readability and engagement. The consistent rhyme scheme also lends a sense of cohesion to the narrative, making the story flow smoothly from one stanza to the next.
- Visual Imagery: McIntyre uses vivid imagery to depict the scenes, from the frozen northern waters to the geese diving into the Thames. These visual descriptions help readers imagine the setting and the events, making the poem more immersive. The contrast between the natural beauty of the geese and the sudden violence of the shotgun shot is particularly striking, highlighting the tension between nature and human intervention.
In conclusion, "Wild Goose Shot" by James McIntyre is a thought-provoking poem that explores the themes of nature, survival, and the ethical considerations of hunting. Through simple language, a clear narrative, and vivid imagery, McIntyre presents a story that invites readers to reflect on the consequences of human actions on wildlife and the natural world. The poem serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between human needs and the preservation of nature.