“We Don't Need to Leave Yet, Do We? Or, Yes We DoOne kind of person when catching a train always wants to allow an hour to cover the ten-block trip to the terminus, And the other kind looks at them as if they were verminous, And the second kind says that five minutes is plenty and will even leave one minute over for buying the tickets, And the first kind looks at them as if they had cerebral rickets. One kind when theater-bound sups lightly at six and hastens off to the play, And indeed I know one such person who is so such that it frequently arrives in time for the last act of the matinee, And the other kind sits down at eight to a meal that is positively sumptuous, Observing cynically that an eight-thirty curtain never rises till eight-forty, an observation which is less cynical than bumptious. And what the first kind, sitting uncomfortably in the waiting room while the train is made up in the yards, can never understand, Is the injustice of the second kind's reaching their scat just as the train moves out, just as they had planned,And what the second kind cannot understand as they stumble over the first kind's heel just as the footlights flash on at last Is that the first kind doesn't feel the least bit foolish at having entered the theater before the cast. Oh, the first kind always wants to start now and the second kind always wants to tarry, Which wouldn't make any difference, except that each other is what they always marry.”
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Quote Analysis
In this humorous and whimsical poem by Ogden Nash, the poet explores the contrasting personalities of individuals when it comes to time management and punctuality. Nash divides people into two categories - those who are always early and those who are always running late. The first kind of person is depicted as meticulous and overly cautious, while the second kind is portrayed as carefree and unconcerned with time constraints. Despite their differences, Nash notes that these individuals often find themselves in situations where their contrasting approaches clash, yet somehow they always end up together in the end. Through this lighthearted exploration of human behavior, Nash points out the irony and inevitability of these mismatched partnerships.
Modern Relevance:
In this humorous poem by Ogden Nash, the contrast between those who are always early and those who are always running late is highlighted. This timeless theme of punctuality versus tardiness is still relevant today, as we all know people who fall into one of these categories. The poem reminds us of the different approaches people have towards time and how it can impact their daily lives and relationships.
Example of Usage
In the poem by Ogden Nash, the comparison between two types of people when it comes to punctuality is humorously portrayed. One type is always early and prepared, while the other is always running late. Nash's witty lines capture the frustration and amusement that can arise from these contrasting perspectives on time management.
Reflection Questions
This poem by Ogden Nash explores the different approaches people have towards punctuality and timeliness. As you reflect on this piece, consider the following questions:
- Which type of person do you identify with more - the one who likes to arrive well in advance or the one who cuts it close?
- How do you think your approach to timeliness impacts your daily life and relationships with others?
- Have you ever experienced a conflict or misunderstanding with someone due to differing views on punctuality? How did you handle it?
- What do you think Nash is trying to convey about human nature and relationships through this poem?
- How can you apply the lessons from this poem to improve your own time management skills and communication with others?
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