“watch your tense and case oh babyi want to be your direct object.you know, that is to sayi want to be on the otherside of all the verbs i knowyou know how to use.i've seen you conjugate:i touchyou touchedyou heardshe knowswho caresi'm interested ina few decent prepositions:above, over, inside, atop,below, around andi'm sure there are moreright on the tip ofyour tongue.i am ready to spendthe present perfectsplitting your infinitivethere's an art to the way youdangle your participle andsince we're being informal it's okay touse a few contractions, likewasn't (going to)shouldn't (have)and a conjunction:but (did it anyway)and i'm really really gladyou're not into dependentclauses since all i'm reallyinterested in is yourbad, bad grammarand your exclamation point.”
Quote Analysis
In this poem by Daphne Gottlieb, the speaker humorously and playfully describes their desire to be the direct object of the person they are addressing. The use of grammar terms and language-related imagery adds a clever twist to the romantic theme of the poem. Through the use of syntax and grammar rules, the speaker conveys their infatuation with the other person's linguistic abilities. The poem delves into the idea of intimacy through language and showcases how grammar and syntax can be used to express emotions and desires in a unique and creative way.
Modern Relevance:
In this poem by Daphne Gottlieb, language and grammar are used to convey intimacy and desire. The playful exploration of grammar rules and punctuation reflects the complexities and nuances of modern communication. This poem highlights the importance of language in forming connections and expressing emotions in contemporary relationships.
Poetic Usage of Grammar in a Romantic Context
“watch your tense and case oh baby i want to be your direct object. you know, that is to say i want to be on the otherside of all the verbs i know you know how to use. i've seen you conjugate: i touch you touched you heard she knows who cares i'm interested in a few decent prepositions: above, over, inside, atop, below, around and i'm sure there are more right on the tip of your tongue. i am ready to spend the present perfect splitting your infinitive there's an art to the way you dangle your participle and since we're being informal it's okay to use a few contractions, like wasn't (going to) shouldn't (have) and a conjunction: but (did it anyway) and i'm really really glad you're not into dependent clauses since all i'm really interested in is your bad, bad grammar and your exclamation point.” - Daphne Gottlieb
Reflection Questions
This poem by Daphne Gottlieb plays with the idea of grammar and language in a romantic context. As you reflect on the poem, consider the following questions:
- How does the use of grammar and language in the poem enhance the overall meaning and tone?
- How does the speaker's desire to be the "direct object" and to interact with verbs and prepositions symbolize a desire for intimacy and connection?
- In what ways does the poem challenge traditional ideas of proper grammar and language use, and how does this contribute to its overall message?
- How do you interpret the speaker's emphasis on certain grammar concepts, such as splitting infinitives and dangling participles, in relation to the poem's themes of desire and passion?
- What do you think the poem is trying to convey about the complexity and fluidity of language in romantic relationships?
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