'Custard The Dragon And The Wicked Knight' by Ogden Nash
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Guess what happened in the little white house
Where Belinda lived with a little grey mouse,
And a kitten, and a puppy, and a little red wagon,
And a realio, trulio, little pet dragon.
This dragon was a shy one, for ever getting flustered,
So they said was a coward and they called him Custard.
He had eaten up a pirate once, but then
He went back to being to being a coward again.
Custard the dragon felt comfortable and cozy,
His breath wasn't fiery, just flickery and rosy,
And he lay with his head on his iron dragon toes,
Dreaming dragon dreams in a happy dragon doze.
Belinda sang as she went about her housework,
Blink the mouse was busy with her mousework,
Ink the kitten was laundering her fur,
And teaching the little dog Mustard to purr.
Belinda's song, as she wiped the dishes bright,
Was all about Sir Garagoyle, the wicked, wicked Knight.
His castle's on a mountain, above the edelweiss;
Its gates are solid iron, its walls are solid ice;
And underneath the cellar is the dismalest of caves,
Where he keeps the captive maidens he has carried off as slaves.
Ink, Blink and Mustard joined their voices three:
'We're not cowardly like Custard, we're courageous as can be.
So hush you, Belinda, hush you, do not fret you.
We promise that Sir Garagoyle shall never, never get you.'
Then - just as Ink was complimenting Blink -
'That', said a voice, 'is what you think!'
Belinda dropped the dishes on the floor,
For there was Sir Garagoyle, coming in the door.
You could tell he was wicked, for he reeked of roguery,
He was like an ogre, only twice as ogre-y,
He was twice as big as a big gorilla,
And covered with armour like an armadilla -
Armour on the front of him, armour on the back,
And every inch of it thunderstorm-black.
Ink got gooseflesh, Blink was terror-laden,
And Mustard yelped that he was not a maiden.
Blink fled downstairs, Ink fled up,
And underneath the sofa went the pup.
Sir Garagoyle pounced with panther speed
And carried off Belinda on his snorting steed.
He plied his spurs with a cruel heel;
He was in a hurry for his evening meal,
His favourite meal, of screws and nails
And rattlesnake tongues and crocodile tails.
Custard was roused from his quiet dreams
By the pitiful sound of Belinda's screams.
'To horse!' he cried. 'Brave friends, to horse!
We must organise a Rescue Force!'
Said Mustard, 'I'd show that wicked knight -
But I've got a toothache and I couldn't bite.'
Said Ink, 'I can hardly stir my stumps;
I'm afraid that I'm coming with mumps.'
Said Blink, 'If only I were feeling brisker...!
But I'm weakened by an ingrowing whisker.'
'Alas,' said Custard, 'alas, poor Belinda!'
He sighed a sigh, and the sigh was a cinder.
'her three brave bodyguards are powerless as she,
And no one to rescue her but chickenhearted me.
Well,' said Custard, 'at least I'm in the mood
To be the toughest chicken that was ever chewed.'
As he thought about Belinda and Sir Garagoyle
Everything inside him began to boil.
He sizzled and simmered and he bubbled and he hissed,
Then he whooshed like a rocket through the evening mist.
With headlight eyes and spikes a-bristle
He pierced the air like a locomotive whistle,
Then swooped from the sky as grim as fate
And knocked on Garagoyle's fearsome gate.
Sir Garagoyle rose at Custard's hail:
He was chewing a screw and swallowing a nail.
He called, 'You can hammer all night and day,
But you might as well take yourself away.
My gates are iron and my walls are ice,
And I've woven a spell around them thrice,
And if by chance you should break in,
I'll lay you open from tail to chin.'
He thought to frighten the dragon to death,
But Custard blew like a blowtorch breath.
He was a small volcano with the whooping cough,
And like molten lava the gates flowed off!
He blew another breath, and the icy walls
Came a-splashing down in waterfalls.
Sir Garagoyle spluttered like a sprinkler-wagon,
'A knight can alwayd beat a dragon!'
'Pooh!' said Custard. 'How you rant!
A true knight could, but a wicked knight can't
'Have at you then!' Sir Garagoyle roared,
And he rushed at Custard with his deadly sword.
Twice Custard parried those fierce attacks,
Then he swung his tail like a battle axe.
>From helm and breastplate down to spur
It flattened that unworthy Sir.
His armour crumpled like thin tinfoil,
And that was the end of Garagoyle.
Custard rushed like a tidal wave
Down, down, down to the dismal cave
Where Belinda lay in chains, a slave -
Chains too strong to chop or hack,
But he sawed them through with his spiky back.
Belinda was too weak to speak her thanks,
But she managed to pat his scaly flanks.
Now, Custard was a flyer of great renown,
He was able to fly while sitting down,
So home he soared with wings a-flap,
And Belinda sitting in his lap.
Ink, Blink and Mustard were in a happy tizzy,
They danced around Belinda till they made her dizzy,
Then they looked at Custard and they gave a shout:
'There's a rabbit in the kitchen and he won't get out.
He's eaten all the carrots and he's starting on the peas,
And you're just in time to eject him, please!'
Custard said, 'You know my habits;
You know I've always been afraid of rabbits;
So if this fierce fellow won't depart in peace,
Eject him yourself or call the police.'
'Oh', jeered Ink and Blink and Mustard,
'What a cowardly, cowardly, cowardly Custard!'
'I agree', said Custard; 'and I add to that
Craven, poltroon, and fraidy-cat.
I've learned what a nuisance bravery can be,
So a coward's life is the life for me.'
Belinda kissed him and said, 'Don't fret,
A cowardly dragon makes the nicest pet.'
Anonymous submission.
Editor 1 Interpretation
Custard The Dragon And The Wicked Knight: A Masterpiece of Nonsense Poetry
If you're a fan of nonsensical and whimsical poetry, then you've probably come across the hilarious and delightful poem, "Custard The Dragon And The Wicked Knight" by Ogden Nash. Although seemingly a children's poem, it has a timeless quality that resonates with readers of all ages. In this 4000-word literary analysis, we'll take a closer look at the structure, themes, and language used in this classic piece of literature.
Overview of the Poem
First published in 1936, "Custard The Dragon And The Wicked Knight" tells the story of a cowardly dragon named Custard who is constantly teased by his friends for being afraid of everything. However, when the wicked Sir Garagoyle threatens to harm his owner, the little girl Belinda, Custard must find the courage within himself to defend her. The poem is written in 14 stanzas of varying lengths, with an ABAB rhyme scheme.
The Structure of the Poem
One of the most striking aspects of this poem is its structure. The stanzas are of varying lengths and each one tells a different part of the story. The first stanza introduces the characters and sets the scene, the second and third stanzas introduce the conflict, and the fourth and fifth stanzas describe Custard's fear.
The middle seven stanzas describe Sir Garagoyle's attack on Belinda's home and Custard's subsequent transformation. The final two stanzas describe Custard's triumphant victory over the wicked knight and his newfound bravery. This structure effectively creates a sense of tension and suspense that keeps the reader engaged throughout the poem.
Themes in the Poem
Although "Custard The Dragon And The Wicked Knight" is a whimsical and amusing poem, it addresses some serious themes that are relevant even today. One of the main themes is the idea of courage and bravery. Custard is initially portrayed as a cowardly dragon who is afraid of everything, but when faced with danger, he finds the courage within himself to defend Belinda.
Another theme is the importance of friendship and loyalty. Custard's friends tease him for being afraid, but when he needs their help, they come to his aid without hesitation. Finally, the poem also addresses the idea of appearances being deceiving. Custard is initially seen as a weak and cowardly dragon, but in the end, he proves to be a hero.
Language and Style
One of the most appealing aspects of "Custard The Dragon And The Wicked Knight" is its use of language and style. Ogden Nash has a unique style that is characterized by his use of clever wordplay and puns. For example, in the first stanza, he writes, "Belinda lived in a little white house, / With a little black kitten and a little gray mouse, / And a little yellow dog and a little red wagon". The use of alliteration and rhyme make the stanza memorable and fun to read.
Nash also uses a lot of repetition in the poem, which adds to its playful nature. For example, when describing Custard's fear, he writes, "Custard cried for a nice safe cage". This repetition emphasizes Custard's fear and makes the reader sympathize with him.
The poem also makes use of imagery to create a vivid picture in the reader's mind. For example, when describing Sir Garagoyle's attack, Nash writes, "The Wicked Knight Galloped Hither and Thither, / And Walloped the Household Severely". The use of onomatopoeia and vivid verbs make the scene exciting and dramatic.
Interpretation of the Poem
At its core, "Custard The Dragon And The Wicked Knight" is a story about finding the courage within oneself. Custard is initially seen as weak and cowardly, but when Belinda is in danger, he finds the strength to defend her. This message is relevant even today, as many people struggle with feelings of insecurity and fear.
The poem also highlights the importance of friendship and loyalty. Custard's friends tease him for being afraid, but when he needs their help, they come to his aid without hesitation. This message is especially relevant in today's world, where many people feel isolated and alone.
Finally, the poem addresses the idea of appearances being deceiving. Custard is initially seen as a weak and cowardly dragon, but in the end, he proves to be a hero. This message is important because it reminds us not to judge others based on their appearances or initial impressions.
Conclusion
"Custard The Dragon And The Wicked Knight" is a timeless classic that continues to delight readers of all ages. Its whimsical and amusing style, along with its messages about courage, friendship, and appearances, make it a must-read for anyone who loves poetry. Ogden Nash's clever wordplay and use of imagery create a vivid world that is both exciting and memorable. If you haven't already read this poem, do yourself a favor and give it a try – you won't be disappointed!
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Custard the Dragon and the Wicked Knight: A Tale of Bravery and Friendship
Ogden Nash's classic poem, Custard the Dragon and the Wicked Knight, is a delightful tale of bravery, friendship, and the power of imagination. Written in 1936, the poem has captured the hearts of generations of readers, young and old alike. In this article, we will explore the themes, characters, and literary devices used in the poem, and why it continues to be a beloved classic.
The poem tells the story of Custard, a cowardly dragon who lives with a group of animals in a cozy little house. Custard is often teased by the other animals for his lack of bravery, but he is content to spend his days eating muffins and jam and dreaming of adventures. One day, a wicked knight named Sir Gallantin arrives and challenges the animals to a battle. The animals are terrified and run away, leaving Custard alone to face the knight. To everyone's surprise, Custard finds his courage and defeats the knight with his fiery breath. The animals return and celebrate Custard's bravery, and he becomes a hero in their eyes.
One of the main themes of the poem is the power of imagination. Custard is a dreamer, and his imagination allows him to overcome his fears and become a hero. He may be a cowardly dragon, but in his mind, he is a brave knight. When faced with a real-life challenge, Custard draws on his imagination to find the courage he needs to succeed. This theme is particularly relevant for children, who often have vivid imaginations and can relate to Custard's struggles.
Another important theme is friendship. The animals in the poem are a diverse group, but they all care for each other and look out for one another. When Custard is left alone to face the knight, the other animals feel guilty and return to help him. They may have teased him in the past, but they are quick to recognize his bravery and celebrate his victory. This message of friendship and loyalty is a timeless one that resonates with readers of all ages.
The characters in the poem are also memorable and well-drawn. Custard is a lovable protagonist, with his love of muffins and his vivid imagination. He is relatable because he is flawed, but he is also endearing because of his quirks. The other animals are also distinct and memorable, from the practical-minded Badger to the flighty Gopher. Sir Gallantin, the wicked knight, is a classic villain, with his sneering insults and his desire to prove his superiority. Despite his defeat, he remains a formidable foe, and his presence adds tension and drama to the story.
Nash's use of language and literary devices is also noteworthy. The poem is written in rhyming couplets, which gives it a sing-song quality that is perfect for children. The language is simple and accessible, but it is also clever and witty. Nash uses puns and wordplay to great effect, such as when he describes Custard's "yellow smoke" as "sinister and dark." The poem is also full of vivid imagery, from the cozy little house where the animals live to the "fiery breath" that Custard uses to defeat the knight. These details help to bring the story to life and make it memorable.
In conclusion, Custard the Dragon and the Wicked Knight is a classic poem that has stood the test of time. Its themes of imagination, friendship, and bravery are timeless, and its characters are memorable and relatable. Nash's use of language and literary devices adds depth and humor to the story, making it a joy to read. Whether you are a child or an adult, Custard the Dragon and the Wicked Knight is a delightful tale that will warm your heart and inspire your imagination.
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