Complete Analysis of And What If They Broke Wind in Public by Funso Aiyejina

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General Introduction

"And What If They Broke Wind in Public?" by Funso Aiyejina is a contemplative poem that reflects on the reverence traditionally given to elders and the wisdom they impart. The poem uses the metaphor of breaking wind to discuss societal attitudes towards aging, wisdom, and the veneration of elders. It blends humor with deep respect, examining how societies often overlook the frailties of their elders while venerating their accumulated wisdom.

 Title

The title, "And What If They Broke Wind in Public?" is provocative and humorous, immediately capturing the reader's attention. It sets the tone for the poem, which explores the paradoxical nature of respect and veneration for elders despite their human frailties. The title suggests a scenario where even socially embarrassing actions by elders are overlooked and transformed into acts of honor, highlighting society's deep respect for age and wisdom.

 Themes

1. Veneration of Elders:

   - "Such was our veneration of age as wisdom / That when elders broke wind in public / Without hesitation, we named them patriots"

   - This theme reflects the cultural reverence for elders, viewing their actions, even the mundane or embarrassing, as honorable.

2. Wisdom and Experience:

   - "We camped at their feet, silent and willing eyes / Drinking our fill from pregnant wisdom gourds"

   - The elders are seen as repositories of wisdom, with the younger generation eager to learn from their experiences.

3. Human Frailty:

   - "Enthralled by their display of human frailty"

   - The poem acknowledges the elders' human weaknesses, yet these frailties are part of their respected status.

4. Tradition and Continuity:

   - "We grew to know that no matter how long it may take / The stammerer will give voice to his father’s name"

   - The continuity of tradition and respect for lineage is emphasized, suggesting that over time, everyone will honor their heritage.

5. Identity and Origin:

   - "The bastard, only the bastard points at his origin / Even though in ruins, with a sneering left finger"

   - This theme explores the complex relationship between identity, heritage, and societal acceptance, indicating that one’s origins, no matter how flawed, are still significant.

 Literary Devices

1. Metaphor:

   - "Drinking our fill from pregnant wisdom gourds"

   - This metaphor compares wisdom to a nourishing liquid, suggesting that the elders’ knowledge is both rich and sustaining.

2. Irony:

   - "Without hesitation, we named them patriots / Congratulated them for jobs well done"

   - There is irony in how an embarrassing act (breaking wind) is elevated to an act of patriotism, highlighting the extent of societal reverence.

3. Imagery:

   - "Silent and willing eyes / Drinking our fill"

   - The imagery here evokes a scene of eager disciples absorbing the elders’ teachings, emphasizing the respectful attention given to wisdom.

4. Allusion:

   - "No matter how dark, the black goat finds its trail home"

   - This alludes to a proverb, suggesting that no matter the difficulties, one will find their way back to their roots.

5. Symbolism:

   - "Pregnant wisdom gourds"

   - The gourds symbolize the richness and abundance of knowledge held by the elders.

6. Aphorism:

   - "The stammerer will give voice to his father’s name"

   - This aphorism reflects a universal truth about heritage and the inevitability of acknowledging one’s lineage.

 Language and Mood

The language of the poem is rich and layered, using metaphors, imagery, and proverbs to convey deep respect for elders. The mood is a mix of reverence and humor, acknowledging the human frailty of elders while elevating their wisdom. The tone is reflective, inviting the reader to consider the value of experience and the societal attitudes towards aging and respect.

 Context

Funso Aiyejina is a Nigerian poet known for his works that often explore cultural and societal themes. This poem reflects the African tradition of venerating elders and the wisdom they possess. The use of proverbs and culturally specific references highlights the importance of oral traditions and the transmission of knowledge across generations.

 Conclusion

"And What If They Broke Wind in Public?" is a thought-provoking poem that uses humor and reverence to explore the veneration of elders. It highlights the paradox of respecting the frailties of age while honoring the wisdom that comes with it. Through rich metaphors and cultural references, Aiyejina emphasizes the importance of tradition, identity, and the continuity of knowledge. The poem invites readers to reflect on their own cultural attitudes towards aging and the respect given to those who have lived long and learned much.