Human Nature Unveiled: Achebe vs Ferlinghetti

Chinua Achebe and Lawrence Ferlinghetti, through their respective poems "Vultures" and "Two Scavengers in a Truck, Two Beautiful People in a Mercedes," delve into the complexities of human nature. This essay aims to dissect the ways in which these poets employ language, irony, imagery, and structural elements to present contrasting views on humanity. Achebe navigates the duality of love and evil, while Ferlinghetti challenges societal stereotypes, both contributing to a nuanced exploration of the human condition.

Chinua Achebe's Portrayal in "Vultures"

Achebe masterfully utilizes language to paint a vivid picture of humanity, drawing parallels between vultures and people.

The poet employs a negative and gruesome diction, describing a bleak scene where vultures perch on a "broken bone of a dead tree" amidst a depressing "drizzle." Disturbing details emerge, such as the vultures picking the eyes of a swollen corpse.

However, amid the repulsion, Achebe introduces a surprising element – an inclination towards love. The male vulture "inclines affectionately" to its counterpart, challenging the reader to consider the coexistence of love and evil in even the most repulsive beings.

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Lawrence Ferlinghetti's Portrayal in "Two Scavengers..."

Ferlinghetti, in "Two Scavengers in a Truck, Two Beautiful People in a Mercedes," employs language differently than Achebe. Here, language serves to contrast two couples – the "grungy scavengers" and the "cool" and affluent couple in a Mercedes. The distinction between the "hip" architect with long blond hair and the "hunched back" scavenger resembling Quasimodo is stark.

The poet uses language not to repulse but to emphasize the societal divide, challenging preconceived notions about individuals based on their outward appearance and social status.

Use of Irony in Both Poems

Achebe introduces irony in "Vultures" through the depiction of the commandant in Belsen. The mention of "human rough clinging to his nostrils" suggests the unspeakable evil he has committed. Yet, amidst this repulsion, Achebe reveals a contrasting side – the commandant's act of buying chocolate for his children, showcasing an unexpected display of love.

Ferlinghetti, in contrast, uses irony in "Two Scavengers..." to challenge societal stereotypes. The garbage men, seemingly at the bottom rung of society, are portrayed as morally superior to the elegant couple looking down on them. This irony prompts the reader to reevaluate conventional views about societal roles.

Imagery in "Vultures" and "Two Scavengers..."

Imagery plays a crucial role in Achebe's "Vultures," particularly in the final stanza. Achebe presents an image that seemingly celebrates love in a cold heart, suggesting that even the most evil "ogre" can exhibit a glimpse of love. However, Achebe introduces a nuanced perspective, implying that this trace of love may perpetuate evil in people.

Ferlinghetti employs imagery in "Two Scavengers..." through the phrase "an Odourless T.V. ad," challenging the idealistic view that all people are equal. The image implies that societal equality is as false as a television advertisement, emphasizing the insurmountable gap between the scavengers and the elegant couple.

Structural Differences

The structure of "Vultures" comprises three distinct sections, each presenting a different facet of human nature. The vultures serve as a metaphor in the first section, followed by a human equivalent, and finally, an ambiguous conclusion about people. Achebe skillfully employs this structure to guide the reader through various perspectives on humanity.

On the other hand, "Two Scavengers..." features a varied structure that enhances the poem's thematic elements. For instance, lines 31-34 emphasize the societal gap by setting apart the phrase "between them," underscoring the unbridgeable divide between different sets of people.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both "Vultures" and "Two Scavengers..." offer unique insights into the multifaceted nature of humanity. Achebe, with his exploration of love and evil coexisting, prompts reflection on the intricacies of human character. Ferlinghetti challenges societal stereotypes, using irony and imagery to question preconceived notions about people based on their social standing.

While both poets employ language, irony, imagery, and structure differently, contributing to a rich exploration of human nature, Achebe's presentation appears more effective in conveying the nuanced relationship between love and evil. However, lingering questions about the anthropomorphic interpretation of vultures add a layer of complexity to Achebe's portrayal, leaving room for further contemplation.