Meaning of With His Mouth Full Of Food by Shel Silverstein

Uncovering the Humor and Social Commentary in Shel Silverstein’s "With His Mouth Full Of Food"

Shel Silverstein’s whimsical poem "With His Mouth Full Of Food" is a satirical masterpiece that pokes fun at societal norms and the absurdity of Milford Dupree’s habitual behavior. As a parent, I have often struggled with my own children’s peculiar habits, and reading this poem brought back nostalgic memories of our dinner conversations. In this article, I will delve into the meaning behind Silverstein’s witty poem, exploring its themes, characters, and the social commentary it embodies.

The Unwelcome Guest: Milford Dupree

The poem begins by introducing us to Milford Dupree, an endearing yet frustrating figure who consistently talks with his mouth full of food. This peculiar habit is reinforced throughout the poem, as Silverstein repeats the phrase "talked with his mouth full of food" to emphasize its ridiculousness. Milford’s behavior is not just socially unacceptable but also unnatural, making it a compelling subject for satire.

Silverstein’s use of descriptive language adds to the comical effect, as we imagine Milford’s father describing his son’s eating habits: "as crude as a cow giving a moo" and "as lewd as a bird giving a coo". These comparisons serve to underscore the absurdity of Milford’s actions, positioning them as an anomaly in the natural world.

A Family Affair

As the poem progresses, we meet Milford’s parents, who are horrified by their son’s habit. His mother is particularly perturbed, using phrases like "crude" and "lewd" to condemn his behavior. She begs Milford to stop, warning him that his antics are not only embarrassing but also unacceptable. His father adds to the criticism, offering "marriage or tattoos" as alternatives to continuing his offspring’s "offensive" habit.

The family dynamic in the poem is palpable, as Silverstein expertly captures the frustration and exasperation they feel. Milford, on the other hand, reacts with nonchalance and amusement, dismissing his parents’ concerns with a giggling "Oh boy!". This detachment underscores his lack of concern for social norms, revealing a character who is driven more by instinct than etiquette.

A Desperate Measure: The Gluer

In a desperate attempt to curb Milford’s behavior, his parents resort to the drastic measure of calling in a "gluer" to physically bind his mouth shut. This absurd scenario showcases the significance they attach to proper table manners and social etiquette, as well as their inability to address the issue constructively.

The gluing of Milford’s mouth is a turning point in the poem, leading to an unintended consequence: the distortion of his speech. In his attempts to communicate, "glump," "gulp," and "gloop"** are the only sounds he can muster. This transformative event adds an ironic twist to the story, revealing the unintended consequences of Silverstein’s characters’ over-the-top reactions.

Conclusion: A Lighthearted Critique of Societal Norms

"With His Mouth Full Of Food" is a lighthearted yet incisive critique of societal norms, urging readers to reflect on the often unspoken rules of etiquette. Silverstein’s use of humor, satire, and whimsical language makes this poem both entertaining and thought-provoking.

As a parent, I have often struggled to balance the need for politeness with the natural rhythms of childhood. Reading this poem brought back memories of my own children’s messy, chaotic meals, where "talked with his mouth full of food" was a norm, not an exception.

Through "With His Mouth Full Of Food," Silverstein invites us to challenge our assumptions about social etiquette, encouraging us to confront the absurdity and ridiculousness that often lies just beneath the surface of everyday life.

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