Howl by Allen Ginsberg: Summary and Critical Analysis
In the author’s own words, the poem is an affirmation of individual experiences of God, sex, drugs, absurdity etc. Part I deals sympathetically with individual cases. Part II describes and rejects the Moloch of society which confounds and suppresses individual experiences and forces the individual to consider himself mad if he does not reject his own deepest sense. Part III is an expansion of sympathy and identification with Carl Solomon who is in the madhouse-saying that his madness basically his rebellion against Moloch and I am with him, and extending my hand in union. This is an affirmative act of mercy and compassion, which are the basic emotions of the poem. The criticism is that ‘Society’ is merciless.
Here is Meditations On Moloch:
4 comments
I found a version of the original in one video.
Moloch is more than just ‘modern capitalism’. Moloch is, in a nutshell, the pure process of cold and heartless industrial dehumanization. It’s a systemic thing that no one person can truly hold and touch, yet when looking upon groups acting in certain interests things get clear and horrifying.
Capitalism. Labor. Frightening, isn’t it? The thought of “working.” Oooohh, scary stuff. Do you possess a single appreciable job skill, Ic, or do others pull all your weight? It’s fine. We’re here for you. Back to your books, kid.
. . . and please, please – close the coal chute door. You’re letting cold air escape the basement, kiddo. 😉
Chip, you’re just attacking something that you disagree with because you don’t understand the logic behind it. (You not believing in God has nothing to do with this.) I did the same, but eventually I grew up.