Here's a breakdown:
* Playful: Cummings employs whimsical language and unconventional syntax, creating a lighthearted and humorous tone. He uses rhymes and internal rhymes in an unexpected way, adding to the poem's playful nature.
* Satirical: The poem pokes fun at traditional heroic narratives and the idea of blind patriotism. It mocks the absurdity of blind obedience and the glorification of war.
* Reverent: Despite the satire, Cummings ultimately expresses admiration for Olaf's courage and defiance. He celebrates Olaf's individuality and his refusal to conform to societal expectations. The poem's final lines, "but Olaf (and I) / are not afraid," convey a deep respect for Olaf's integrity and a sense of solidarity with his spirit of rebellion.
The poem's tone is not entirely consistent. It oscillates between playful mockery and serious admiration, creating a unique and compelling reading experience.
Key features that contribute to the tone:
* Unconventional capitalization and punctuation: This adds to the playful and unconventional tone.
* Use of simple language and repetition: Creates a sense of childlike wonder and innocence, while also highlighting the absurdity of the situation.
* Contrasting imagery: Images of violence and brutality juxtaposed with images of nature and beauty.
* Humorous and ironic language: "glad and big" is a humorous description of a violent and defiant figure.
Overall, "i sing of Olaf glad and big" is a poem that challenges the reader to think critically about heroism, patriotism, and conformity. Its tone is playful, satirical, and ultimately reverent, reflecting Cummings's complex and nuanced understanding of the human condition.