Few poems have the whimsical charm of “I Had a Hippopotamus” by Patrick Barrington. This delightful piece, with its playful absurdity and clever wordplay, has been a favorite of mine for years. On the surface, it’s a humorous tale about an unlikely pet and the eccentric narrator who takes great pride in their unconventional companion. But as with most great poems, there’s more beneath the surface than first meets the eye.
The Joy of the Ridiculous
The very idea of keeping a hippopotamus in a shed is so ludicrous that it immediately sparks laughter. That’s one of the reasons I adore this poem—it celebrates the absurd. It’s a reminder that not everything in life needs to make sense, and that it’s okay to find joy in the nonsensical.
In a world that often feels far too serious, “I Had a Hippopotamus” invites us to lighten up, to embrace silliness, and to let our imaginations run wild. It’s the perfect antidote to the everyday grind.
A Lesson in Individuality
One of the things I find most endearing about this poem is its subtle message about individuality. The narrator doesn’t care that keeping a hippopotamus as a pet is unconventional—or downright impractical. They’re proud of their choice and unapologetic about their quirky lifestyle.
To me, this is a celebration of being true to yourself, no matter how peculiar your passions or interests may seem to others. It’s a gentle nudge to embrace your unique quirks and let go of the need for external validation.
The Bittersweet Ending
For all its humor, the poem takes a surprisingly poignant turn when the narrator’s beloved hippopotamus eventually dies. The comedic tone shifts into something more reflective, and we’re left with a sense of loss.
What I love about this is how it mirrors real life. Even in the most joyous of relationships—whether with a person, a pet, or even an idea—there’s always the potential for sorrow. But the poem doesn’t dwell on the sadness. Instead, it celebrates the joy and uniqueness of the relationship while it lasted.
This shift in tone is a reminder to cherish the things that bring us happiness, no matter how fleeting they may be.
Why It Matters
“I Had a Hippopotamus” is more than just a lighthearted poem. It’s a celebration of creativity, individuality, and the simple joys of life. It reminds us to look for humor in unexpected places and to approach the world with curiosity and wonder.
Whenever I read this poem, I’m reminded not to take life too seriously. It’s a call to nurture the playful side of ourselves, to find delight in the absurd, and to embrace the things that make us uniquely who we are—even if that’s something as peculiar as keeping a hippopotamus in a shed.
If you’ve never read it, I encourage you to give it a try. It just might inspire you to find your own “hippopotamus”—whatever that may be—and proudly keep it in your proverbial shed.
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