Poetry · Chapter
A "Mute Inglorious Milton" explained
The narrator hears a lament from the 'Unaverage Man' on the beach of Oblivion's sea, who bemoans being overshadowed by his 'Average' brother.
What happens
The narrator hears a lament from the 'Unaverage Man' on the beach of Oblivion's sea, who bemoans being overshadowed by his 'Average' brother. The narrator plunges into the sea to join him, only to find himself stuck with the Unaverage Man instead.
Themes in this chapter
Mortality and Regret
The Unaverage Man laments his obscurity and being sunk in Oblivion's sea, reflecting regret over unrecognized life.
Art and Criticism
The poem critiques the neglect of the 'Unaverage Man' by the press and public, highlighting the struggle for artistic recognition.
Characters to notice
- Unknown
The narrator hears the Unaverage Man's song and plunges into Oblivion's sea, ending up staying with him.
Key passages
“O, I’m the Unaverage Man, But you never have heard of me, For my brother, the Average Man, outran My fame with rapiditee, And I’m sunk in Oblivion’s sea; But my bully big brother the world can span With his wide notorietee.”
The speaker identifies as the 'Unaverage Man,' unknown to the world because his average brother has outpaced him in fame, leaving him forgotten in the sea of oblivion while his brother enjoys widespread renown.
The Unaverage Man expresses his obscurity and envy of his brother's fame.
“The sea was Oblivion’s sea, And I cried as I plunged to swim: “The Unaverage Man shall reside with me.” But he didn’t—I stayed with him!”
The narrator dives into the sea of oblivion, intending to bring the Unaverage Man to safety, but instead ends up remaining with him in that forgotten state.
The narrator's attempt to rescue the Unaverage Man results in his own immersion in obscurity.