A world governed by technology

In a world in which technology grows and spreads faster every day, people must wonder if this is for the best. In the poem, “All Watched Over By Machines”, the writer, Brautigan, produces two opposing tones: anti-technology and pro-technology. When analyzing the poem by an anti-technological tone, we get a sense of satire. The form which the poet transmits his views appear exaggerated to the point of it ridiculing the notion of technology advancing any further. For instance he mentions, “a cybernetic forest filled with pines and electronics where deer stroll peacefully past computers as if they were flowers.” In this world, technology is not only being there but replacing our natural environment. He makes this view by replacing flowers with computer which is how computers have been replacing the jobs of so many people. He later goes on to mention how we are “all watched over by machines of loving grace.” Here machines do not even appear as if existing along us but being superior. The expression “watched over by” and the term “grace” usually alludes to the almighty being, God. By doing this, it illustrates the concept of technology being our savior whom we rely on for help and salvation.

The poem can be interpreted as having a pro-technological tone as the author utilizes imagery of nature and purity to create an appeal for technology. Through the use of euphoric diction, Brautigan portrays technology as harmless and pure. He uses terms such as “cybernetic meadow”, “programming harmony”, “pure water”, and “clear sky”. By putting both aspects, technology and mammals, together in a flowing poetic way, he generates a liking to the world. The word usage, such as “meadow,” helps create an image of a peaceful environment as well as set a soothing tone. The writer then uses “programming”, which is of the technological aspect, with “harmony”, which is what humans would desire in an ideal world. “Water” and “clear sky” produce a pure feeling making technology pleasing.

Although the use of imagery and diction all appear to be producing a tone of peace and purity, the poem does not have a pro-technology message. It seems exaggerated and ridicules how humans are allowing it to take over their lives. Brautigan ends his poem with “joined back to nature, returned to our mammal brothers and sisters.” This clearly states that we should go back and depend on one another and not lifeless machines. Machines are not mammals and the repetition of “mammal” stresses the idea of not being dependent on technology. In addition, as mentioned before, this world is not shared with mammals but governed by technology.