Reid McGrath’s “A Story for Couples in Shock” tells the humorous, yet thought-provoking, tale of Mary Decker, a woman whose prolific fertility leads to an unexpected surprise. The poem, a narrative piece, explores themes of family, motherhood, and the unexpected twists life can throw our way. McGrath’s use of colloquial language and a lighthearted tone renders a potentially serious situation comical, allowing readers to engage with the narrative on a more relatable level.
Contents
Exploring the Narrative and Themes
The poem opens with Mary Decker’s exhaustion after having nine children. The lines “She added nine small young ones to her husband’s family tree. / Over the years, she grew quite large” immediately establish Mary’s weariness and the toll repeated pregnancies have taken on her physical form. McGrath skillfully uses humor to depict her exasperation. Her confrontation with her husband about being “tied” after enough of “diapers and the rest” while he takes a pinch of snuff paints a vivid picture of their dynamic.
Mary’s decision to undergo tubal ligation, a procedure presented in the context of the 1950s with the doctor described as a “stout Catholic man,” adds another layer to the narrative. The line “he tied her tubes but not so tightly that / in nine more months there was a baby underneath her fat” is both humorous and shocking, setting the stage for the unexpected turn of events.
The Unexpected Twist and its Implications
The discovery of the ectopic pregnancy during what Mary believed was an appendectomy creates a dramatic and comical scene. Waking up to find a “crying baby on your breast” after believing oneself infertile is a scenario ripe with both humor and potential trauma. McGrath’s use of exclamation further emphasizes the shock: “Think of what it’d do to you if you woke up to find / a crying baby on your breast! I think you’d lose your mind.”
Mary’s initial denial – “That baby isn’t mine” – highlights the unexpectedness of the situation. However, the poem concludes on a heartwarming note: “It took three months but Mary loved that baby in good time.” This underscores the resilience of the human spirit and the ability to adapt to unforeseen circumstances.
The Broader Message
McGrath’s poem uses the specific case of Mary Decker to explore the broader themes of family and acceptance. The poem’s closing lines, “Thank God we are not rabbits; and although at first we’re scared / besides the Mary Deckers. There’s nine-months to get prepared,” offer a gentle reminder of the human capacity for love and adjustment. While the initial shock might be overwhelming, McGrath suggests that there’s always time to adapt and embrace the unexpected joys life may bring. This message resonates with readers, particularly those who have experienced the surprises and challenges of parenthood.
Conclusion
“A Story for Couples in Shock” is more than a humorous anecdote; it is a reflection on the complexities of family life and the unexpected turns that can shape it. McGrath’s skillful use of narrative, colloquial language, and humor creates a poem that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The poem’s enduring appeal lies in its relatable portrayal of a family grappling with the unexpected while ultimately finding love and acceptance. Through Mary Decker’s experience, McGrath offers readers a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human heart and the capacity to find joy even in the most surprising circumstances.