* His comedic genius: Milligan's wit, absurdity, and playful use of language were central to his humor. These qualities found natural expression in his poetry, which often incorporated surreal imagery, wordplay, and nonsensical situations.
* His experiences in World War II: Milligan served in the British Army during the war and saw firsthand the horrors of conflict. These experiences informed his writing, often manifesting as dark humor, satire, and a sense of the absurd.
* His love of language: Milligan was fascinated by words and their potential for creating humor and meaning. He enjoyed playing with language, twisting phrases, and inventing new words. This love of language is evident in his poems, which are often filled with inventive rhymes, unexpected metaphors, and playful wordplay.
* His Irish heritage: Milligan's Irish roots likely influenced his sense of humor, his playful use of language, and his fondness for storytelling. These elements are all present in his poetry, which often features characters and situations drawn from Irish folklore and myth.
Ultimately, Spike Milligan's poetry was a reflection of his unique personality, his experiences, and his love of language. It is difficult to pinpoint a single inspiration, as his work was a blend of many influences. His poems are a testament to his comedic genius, his dark wit, and his ability to find humor in even the most unexpected places.