Toads

The metaphor in this poem is the strangest metaphor I have ever read. The author, Philip Larkin, compares work to a toad, and . The theme of this poem is the mindset of the working "average Joe." They spend so much time working to afford the enjoyments of life which in turn often overshadows and ruins the enjoyments of life. Lark talks about how the speaker is envious of people who have conquered work and are able to enjoy life, but admits the he or she cannot break away from the expectations of society and the system. "Six days of the week it soils With its sickening poison- Just for paying a few bills! That's out of proportion." Not only does this poem compare toads to work but toads to the lack of courage inside ones self. This toad is the main reason why the speaker can't escape the "rat race." "For something sufficiently toad-like Squats in me, too;... And will never allow me to blarney My way to getting The fame and the girl and the money all at one sitting." His final sentence summarizes the two toads and describes how they work together. "Its hard to lose either When you have both."