Buffalo Bill’s
by E.E. Cummings
Buffalo Bill’s
defunct
who used to
ride a watersmooth-silver
stallion
and break one two three four five pigeons just like that
Jesus
he was a handsome man
and what i want to know is
how do you like your blue-eyed boy
Mister Death
Understanding “Buffalo Bill’s”
E.E. Cummings’s “Buffalo Bill’s” is a deceptively simple poem, published in 1920 in the inaugural issue of The Dial. At first glance it appears to celebrate the famous American showman, Buffalo Bill Cody, but a closer reading reveals a cynical commentary on fame, violence, and the inevitability of death. The poem’s brevity and unconventional structure contribute to its lasting impact and make it a frequently studied piece of American poetry.
Summary and Central Idea
The poem opens with the stark declaration that “Buffalo Bill’s” is defunct. It then describes his skill as a rider and marksman, noting how he breaks one, two, three, four, five pigeons with casual ease. The exclamation “Jesus!” reflects a surprising or ironic reaction to his prowess. The poem concludes with a direct address that shifts focus from the celebrated showman to the ultimate equalizer—death itself. The central idea is not a tribute but a meditation on the fleeting nature of life and the ultimate triumph of mortality. It questions the glorification of skill when that skill is applied to senseless destruction.
In-Depth Analysis of “Buffalo Bill’s”
The Power of Opening Lines
The poem’s first word, “Buffalo Bill’s,” establishes the subject, but the immediate following word “defunct” creates a jarring contrast. Cummings does not offer a lengthy lament or a traditional eulogy; instead he delivers a stark statement of fact. This abruptness sets the tone for the entire poem and signals that it will not be a straightforward tribute. The use of the possessive “s” immediately objectifies Bill, reducing him to a name and a status—a figure of something rather than a person.
Deconstructing the Image of the Hero
The lines describing Bill’s riding and shooting prowess are deceptively simple. The phrase “watersmooth-silver stallion” evokes a romantic image, but it is quickly undercut by the matter-of-fact description of pigeon shooting. The repetition of the numbers one two three four five reduces the act of killing to a mechanical process. There is a lack of emotional language surrounding the killing, which contributes to the poem’s cynical tone. The exclamation “Jesus!” is not necessarily reverent; it could be shock or a sarcastic acknowledgment of Bill’s cold efficiency.
The Shift to Mortality
The final four lines are crucial to understanding the poem’s true meaning. The question “how do you like your blue-eyed boy?” is deeply unsettling. It equates death with a cherished possession, a “boy” to be admired. The direct address to “Mister Death” personalizes death, transforming it from an abstract concept into a menacing figure. By linking Buffalo Bill with death, Cummings suggests that even the most celebrated heroes are ultimately subject to mortality. The poem implies that the glorification of skill, power, and fame is ultimately meaningless in the face of death.
Analyzing Poetic and Literary Devices
Free Verse and Enjambment
“Buffalo Bill’s” exemplifies free verse. It has no regular rhyme scheme or metrical pattern, allowing Cummings to create a natural, conversational tone. The poem makes extensive use of enjambment, where a line breaks before a grammatical phrase is complete. This technique creates momentum and forces the reader to actively participate in constructing the poem’s meaning. Almost every line runs into the next, mirroring the relentless march of time and the inevitability of death.
Imagery and Diction
Cummings employs vivid imagery to create a striking visual picture. Phrases like “watersmooth-silver stallion” and the description of the pigeons are memorable and impactful. However, the diction is deliberately sparse and understated, creating a sense of detachment that reinforces the poem’s cynical tone. The use of short, clipped phrases contributes to the overall sense of abruptness.
Irony and Satire
The poem is steeped in irony. The initial appearance of a tribute quickly gives way to a subtle but biting critique of American culture and the glorification of violence. Cummings satirizes the tendency to idolize heroes without acknowledging their flaws or the consequences of their actions. The poem suggests that the line between hero and villain is often blurred.
Assonance and Consonance
While not relying on traditional rhyme, Cummings uses subtle sound devices to create musicality. Notice the assonance in phrases like “watersmooth-silver.” Consonance can be found in lines like “break one two three four five pigeons,” enhancing the poem’s rhythm and texture.
Quotes for Discussion and Interpretation
The following lines are particularly resonant and can spark discussion about the poem’s themes:
who used to
ride a watersmooth-silver
stallion
and break one two three four five pigeons just like that…
This passage highlights the contrast between the romantic image of the hero and the brutal reality of his actions. It can be used to explore the relationship between skill, power, and violence.
“Buffalo Bill’s” is a deceptively simple poem that rewards careful reading. It is a powerful meditation on fame, violence, and the inevitability of death—themes that remain relevant today. By examining the poem’s structure, imagery, and language, readers can gain a deeper understanding of Cummings’s artistic vision and the enduring power of poetry.