199.DSC 101-The Unknown Citizen (6)

1. Critical Appreciation

"The Unknown Citizen" is a satirical poem written by W. H. Auden that delves into the dehumanizing effects of modern society. Through a meticulous examination of an anonymous citizen's life, Auden critiques the conformity, loss of individuality, and the reduction of humanity to statistics in a bureaucratic world.

The poem opens with the construction of a monument to honor the unknown citizen, highlighting the irony that an individual's identity is lost even in the act of memorialization. The speaker then proceeds to analyze the man's life through a series of bureaucratic documents and records. The use of jargon and detached language, such as "JS/07/M/378," serves to depersonalize the citizen, reducing him to a mere set of numbers and letters.

The citizen's conformity to societal norms is emphasized throughout the poem. He is described as having "normal reactions," conforming to social expectations without question. The use of the term "normal" underscores the societal pressure to fit within established norms, eroding individuality in the process. The citizen's lack of political activism and adherence to a routine life further reflect the poem's criticism of a society that values conformity over critical thinking.

The poem also explores the impact of consumerism on identity. The citizen is portrayed as a product of a consumer-driven society, having the right gadgets and the right opinions. His choice of a "Health-card" and "Dentist" is symbolic of a culture that prioritizes physical well-being over deeper human connections and values. Auden uses this to comment on the superficial nature of societal expectations and the dehumanization that occurs when individuals are reduced to their material possessions.

The bureaucratic language employed in the poem serves as a vehicle for satire. The citizen is judged based on standardized criteria, and his worth is measured by his conformity to societal expectations. This reduction of human complexity to a set of checkboxes and numbers highlights the dehumanizing nature of bureaucracy. Auden challenges the notion that one's identity can be accurately captured through bureaucratic records, emphasizing the limitations of such a system in truly understanding a person.

The irony of the poem lies in the fact that despite the extensive documentation of the citizen's life, he remains unknown. His humanity is lost amidst the paperwork and societal expectations. The title itself, "The Unknown Citizen," speaks to the anonymity and insignificance that individuals face in a society driven by bureaucracy and conformity.

Auden's use of irony is not limited to the fate of the unknown citizen but extends to the tone of the poem itself. The speaker adopts a detached and clinical tone, mirroring the bureaucratic language used to describe the citizen. This tone serves to underscore the poem's critique of a society that has become emotionally detached and indifferent to the individual's unique identity.

The poem also raises questions about the role of government and societal expectations in shaping individual lives. The citizen's adherence to societal norms is not portrayed as a conscious choice but rather as a result of external pressures. Auden prompts readers to reflect on the extent to which societal structures influence individual behavior and the implications of such influence on personal freedom and autonomy.

In conclusion, W. H. Auden's "The Unknown Citizen" is a powerful critique of the dehumanizing effects of modern society, bureaucracy, and societal expectations. Through the lens of an unknown citizen's life, Auden exposes the erosion of individuality, the impact of consumerism, and the reduction of humanity to statistics. The poem challenges readers to reconsider the value of conformity and the consequences of a society that prioritizes bureaucratic efficiency over genuine human connections.

2. Themes

"The Unknown Citizen" by W. H. Auden explores various themes that resonate with the dehumanizing impact of modern society, conformity, the loss of individual identity, and the dangers of unchecked bureaucratic power. In this analysis, we delve into these overarching themes and the nuanced layers of social commentary present in the poem.

1. Dehumanization in a Bureaucratic Society:

A central theme in "The Unknown Citizen" is the dehumanization of individuals within a bureaucratic framework. The anonymous citizen is reduced to numerical codes, letters, and statistical data. The poem satirizes the bureaucratic tendency to quantify and standardize human existence. The extensive documentation of the citizen's life through "JS/07/M/378" and similar bureaucratic labels emphasizes the reduction of a unique human being to a set of impersonal identifiers.

2. Conformity and Societal Expectations:

Conformity is a pervasive theme as Auden critiques the societal pressure to fit within established norms. The unknown citizen is portrayed as someone with "normal reactions," implying a conformity to expected behavior. The use of the term "normal" underscores the societal expectation for individuals to adhere to a standardized set of behaviors, opinions, and lifestyle choices. The poem raises questions about the consequences of such conformity, suggesting a loss of individual agency and self-expression.

3. Loss of Individual Identity:

Closely tied to the theme of conformity is the loss of individual identity. The unknown citizen is rendered anonymous not only by the absence of a name but also by the interchangeability of his life with countless others. His routine, preferences, and even political stance are depicted as unremarkable and ordinary. The repetition of "For the Union reports" reinforces the interchangeable nature of his life within the larger societal machinery. Auden highlights the danger of a society that erases individuality in its pursuit of uniformity.

4. Critique of Consumerism:

Consumerism emerges as a theme as the poem addresses the citizen's choices in healthcare and dental care. The selection of a "Health-card" and "Dentist" as markers of his responsible choices reflects a society where well-being is measured in material terms. The poem critiques the superficial nature of societal expectations, suggesting that individual worth is often equated with material possessions and adherence to societal norms. This theme prompts reflection on the true value of human life in a culture driven by consumerist ideals.

5. Irony and Satire:

The poem employs irony and satire as powerful tools to convey its social critique. The very act of commemorating the unknown citizen with a monument becomes ironic, as his identity remains elusive and uncelebrated. The bureaucratic language used to describe the citizen is laden with irony, emphasizing the absurdity of measuring a person's worth through standardized criteria. The detached and clinical tone of the speaker further enhances the satirical elements, underscoring the poem's critique of a society that has lost touch with genuine human experiences.

6. Government and Societal Control:

The poem subtly touches on the role of government and societal expectations in shaping individual lives. The citizen's choices and actions are portrayed not as conscious expressions of personal freedom but as responses to external pressures. The phrase "He was married and added five children to the population" suggests a societal expectation for individuals to conform to traditional family structures. Auden prompts readers to reflect on the extent to which government and societal structures influence and even dictate individual behavior, raising questions about personal autonomy and freedom.

7. Emphasis on the Superficial:

A recurring theme is the emphasis on the superficial aspects of the citizen's life. The poem highlights the insignificance of his individual experiences and emotions, focusing instead on quantifiable measures of success and adherence to societal norms. The use of labels like "satisfactory" and "normal" reflects a society that prioritizes surface-level achievements over deeper, more meaningful aspects of human existence. This theme encourages readers to question the values and priorities of a culture that places importance on outward appearances and material success.

8. Lack of Personal Connection:

The unknown citizen's life is presented through the lens of bureaucratic documentation, devoid of personal connections or meaningful relationships. The poem emphasizes the isolation of the individual within a society that values efficiency and conformity over genuine human connections. The absence of personal details and emotional experiences in the citizen's narrative underscores the poem's critique of a world where individuals become mere cogs in the machinery of societal expectations.

In conclusion, "The Unknown Citizen" is a multi-faceted exploration of themes that resonate with the dehumanizing effects of modern society. Through satire and irony, Auden critiques conformity, loss of individual identity, and the superficial values of a bureaucratic culture. The poem serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the dangers of societal expectations, the erosion of personal agency, and the need for a reevaluation of human worth in the face of dehumanizing forces.

3. Style and Structure

"The Unknown Citizen" by W. H. Auden exhibits a distinctive style and structure that contribute to the poem's satirical and thought-provoking impact. Auden's choice of language, tone, and form serves to emphasize the dehumanization of the individual in a bureaucratic society, while the carefully crafted structure enhances the poem's effectiveness in conveying its social critique.

Style:

1. Bureaucratic Language:

   Auden employs a clinical and bureaucratic language throughout the poem, mirroring the dehumanizing aspects of modern society. The use of numerical codes and labels, such as "JS/07/M/378," establishes a tone reminiscent of official documents. This style serves as a powerful commentary on the reduction of individuals to mere statistics and identifiers within bureaucratic systems.

2. Detached Tone:

   The speaker adopts a detached and objective tone, contributing to the satire and irony embedded in the poem. The detached voice of the speaker mirrors the impersonal nature of bureaucratic documentation, reinforcing the theme of dehumanization. The matter-of-fact delivery of information about the citizen's life adds to the poem's critical tone, highlighting the lack of emotional engagement with the subject.

3. Irony and Satire:

   Irony permeates the poem, from the title itself to the concluding lines. The very act of commemorating the unknown citizen with a monument becomes ironic, as his identity remains unknown and uncelebrated. The use of labels like "normal reactions," "satisfactory," and "normal" is ironic in the context of celebrating an individual's life. Satirical elements are woven into the poem's fabric, allowing Auden to critique societal norms, conformity, and the superficial values prevalent in modern culture.

4. Repetition:

   Auden strategically employs repetition to emphasize certain phrases and create a rhythmic flow. The repetition of the phrase "For the Union reports" serves to underscore the interchangeable nature of the citizen's life within the larger societal machinery. This repetition contributes to the poem's structure and reinforces its critique of conformity and societal expectations.

Structure:

1. Title:

   The title, "The Unknown Citizen," immediately sets the tone for the poem. It creates an expectation that the narrative will revolve around an ordinary individual whose identity is not celebrated or known. This anonymity becomes a central theme as the poem unfolds.

2. Monumental Form:

   The poem is structured as a monument erected to honor the unknown citizen. This form is crucial to the poem's irony, as the very act of constructing a monument for an anonymous individual questions the sincerity and understanding of the society that seeks to memorialize him. The monument, rather than preserving the citizen's identity, serves as a symbol of the dehumanizing forces at play.

3. Narrative Structure:

   The poem follows a narrative structure, presenting details of the citizen's life in a sequential manner. It begins with the construction of the monument and then delves into the various aspects of the citizen's existence as documented by the state. This structure allows Auden to unfold his critique systematically, revealing the layers of dehumanization and conformity embedded in the citizen's life.

4. Bureaucratic Documentation:

   The poem is structured to mimic bureaucratic documentation, using labels, codes, and categories commonly found in official records. The numerical sequence "JS/07/M/378" serves as an example, highlighting the dehumanizing tendency to reduce an individual to a set of alphanumeric characters. This structure reinforces the poem's central theme of the individual's loss of identity within a bureaucratic society.

5. Regular Stanza Form:

   The poem is written in regular quatrains (four-line stanzas), contributing to its formal and controlled structure. This regularity reflects the societal expectations for uniformity and conformity. The poem's orderly structure contrasts with the irregularities and complexities of human life that are intentionally omitted from the bureaucratic documentation.

6. Enjambment:

   While the poem maintains a structured form, Auden also employs enjambment (the continuation of a sentence without a pause beyond the end of a line) to create a sense of flow and connectivity. This technique mirrors the interconnectedness of the citizen's life with the societal machinery. Enjambment allows the poem to move seamlessly from one aspect of the citizen's life to another, contributing to the overall cohesion of the narrative.

7. Climactic Irony:

   The structure builds toward a climactic irony in the concluding lines. The monument, erected to honor the unknown citizen, is paradoxically a testament to his obscurity. The final lines reveal the hollowness of the societal gesture, leaving readers with a poignant sense of the citizen's uncelebrated life and the superficiality of the society that claims to memorialize him.

In conclusion, the style and structure of "The Unknown Citizen" work in harmony to deliver a powerful critique of modern society. Auden's use of bureaucratic language, detached tone, irony, and carefully crafted form contribute to the poem's impact, emphasizing themes of dehumanization, conformity, and the loss of individual identity. The poem's structure mirrors the societal framework it critiques, creating a cohesive and impactful exploration of the dehumanizing forces at play in the contemporary world.

4. Title

The title of W. H. Auden's poem, "The Unknown Citizen," serves as a poignant entry point into the exploration of the dehumanizing effects of modern society. In this commentary, we will delve into the significance of the title and how it encapsulates the overarching themes and social critique present in the poem.

1. Ambiguity and Uniqueness:

   The title immediately introduces ambiguity, prompting readers to question who the "unknown citizen" is and why he remains unknown. This ambiguity is crucial as it opens the door to various interpretations. The term "unknown" suggests anonymity, but it also implies a lack of recognition or celebration. In a society that often values and memorializes individuals for their unique contributions, the juxtaposition of "unknown" and "citizen" sparks curiosity about the individual's identity and the reasons behind his obscurity.

2. The Uncelebrated Individual:

   The title hints at a broader societal indifference towards individual lives. While the term "citizen" implies a member of the community, the modifier "unknown" suggests that this citizen's life has gone unnoticed or uncelebrated. The juxtaposition raises questions about the societal mechanisms that contribute to the anonymity of certain individuals, shedding light on the devaluation of ordinary lives within bureaucratic and conformist structures.

3. Irony and Satire:

   The title sets the stage for the irony that permeates the entire poem. The conventional expectation when commemorating an individual is to celebrate their achievements and contributions. However, in this case, the citizen remains unknown even as a monument is erected in his honor. The title, when coupled with the poem's content, becomes a satirical commentary on societal values, challenging the sincerity of a culture that claims to honor individuals while simultaneously rendering them anonymous.

4. The Everyman:

   The use of the term "citizen" suggests an ordinary, everyday person, rather than a figure of prominence or distinction. This choice of title aligns with the poem's focus on an average individual whose life is dissected through bureaucratic lenses. The "unknown citizen" becomes a representative of the Everyman, allowing readers to see their own potential fate within the dehumanizing structures of modern society.

5. Dehumanization and Reduction to Statistics:

   The title foreshadows the dehumanization that unfolds in the poem. The word "unknown" hints at the anonymity resulting from the reduction of the individual to bureaucratic records and numerical codes. This reduction is not merely a lack of recognition; it's a fundamental stripping away of personal identity, emphasizing the poem's critique of a society that values statistical data over the richness of individual experiences.

6. Impersonal Nature of Bureaucracy:

   The use of "unknown citizen" underscores the impersonal nature of bureaucratic systems. The title itself could be a label on a file or a category in a database, devoid of the complexities and nuances of a real person's life. It encapsulates the dehumanizing tendency of bureaucratic structures that treat individuals as statistics rather than as unique beings with thoughts, emotions, and personal narratives.

7. Societal Expectations and Conformity:

   The title hints at the societal expectations that contribute to the unknown status of the citizen. The implication is that to be known and recognized, one must conform to certain norms and expectations. The unknown citizen becomes a symbol of the conformist individual who follows the prescribed path laid out by societal norms, raising questions about the cost of conformity and the erasure of individuality in the pursuit of societal acceptance.

8. Universal Relevance:

   The title's simplicity adds to its universal relevance. The unknown citizen could be anyone, transcending specific cultural or historical contexts. This universality invites readers to reflect on their own lives and the extent to which they might be known or unknown within the broader societal framework. The title becomes a mirror through which readers can examine their relationship with societal expectations and the potential consequences of conforming to those expectations.

9. Critique of Memorials and Commemorations:

   The title also serves as a prelude to the poem's critique of how society memorializes individuals. By naming the poem "The Unknown Citizen," Auden challenges the sincerity of commemorations and monuments. It prompts readers to question the authenticity of a society that claims to honor its citizens while simultaneously reducing them to anonymous figures in bureaucratic records.

10. Layers of Meaning:

   The title encapsulates the layers of meaning embedded in the poem. On one level, it refers to the literal unknown status of the citizen, obscured by bureaucratic language and societal norms. On another level, it implies a more profound unknown – the untold stories, dreams, and emotions that are eclipsed by societal expectations. The title becomes a microcosm of the poem's exploration of the seen and unseen aspects of an individual's existence.

11. Open-Ended Interpretation:

   The title intentionally leaves room for interpretation, inviting readers to bring their own perspectives and experiences to the poem. The unknown citizen becomes a canvas onto which readers can project their reflections on conformity, societal expectations, and the complexities of human identity. The open-ended nature of the title encourages a multiplicity of interpretations, making the poem a timeless and relevant piece of social commentary.

Conclusion:

   In conclusion, the title "The Unknown Citizen" is a masterstroke by W. H. Auden, encapsulating the central themes and social critique that unfold within the poem. It sets the tone for a profound exploration of dehumanization, conformity, and the cost of societal expectations. The simplicity of the title belies its depth, inviting readers to unravel the layers of meaning and engage with the poem's poignant commentary on the challenges faced by individuals in a modern, bureaucratic society. The unknown citizen becomes not only a symbolic figure within the poem but also a mirror reflecting the complexities of the reader's own relationship with societal structures.

5. W. H. Auden

W. H. Auden, one of the preeminent poets of the 20th century, left an indelible mark on the literary landscape with his distinctive voice, thought-provoking themes, and versatile style. In this exploration, we will delve into the life, works, and legacy of Wystan Hugh Auden.

1. Early Life and Education:

   W. H. Auden was born on February 21, 1907, in York, England. His father was a physician, and his mother, the daughter of a Methodist minister, instilled in him a love for language and literature. Auden displayed an early aptitude for poetry, publishing his first collection, "Poems," at the age of twenty-one while still an undergraduate at Oxford University.

2. 1930s: A Decade of Innovation:

   The 1930s marked a pivotal period in Auden's career. Collaborating with poets like Christopher Isherwood, he produced works that responded to the political and social upheavals of the time. "Paid on Both Sides" (1930) and "The Orators" (1932) exemplify Auden's experimentation with language and form. His keen observation of contemporary events, combined with a mastery of traditional poetic techniques, established him as a leading voice in British literature.

3. American Sojourn:

   In 1939, as World War II loomed, Auden emigrated to the United States. His move signaled a shift in his poetry towards a more reflective and meditative style. He became an American citizen in 1946, solidifying his connection to his adopted homeland. The American landscape and culture found their way into Auden's later works, influencing the thematic depth and tonal nuances of his poetry.

4. Poetic Themes and Concerns:

   Auden's poetry grapples with a myriad of themes, ranging from the individual's quest for meaning and identity to broader societal and political issues. His early works often reflected a fascination with psychological and intellectual complexities. As his career progressed, he turned his attention to more overtly political and philosophical subjects, all the while maintaining an acute sensitivity to the human condition.

   a. Social and Political Engagement:

      Auden was not a detached observer of the political landscape. His works, such as "Spain" (1937) and "September 1, 1939," bear witness to his impassioned response to the Spanish Civil War and the onset of World War II. While he later expressed reservations about some of his politically charged poems, his commitment to addressing the ethical implications of contemporary events remained a defining feature of his body of work.

   b. Religious Explorations:

      Religion and existential questions permeate Auden's poetry. Raised in a religious household, he explored various spiritual traditions and philosophies throughout his life. His poems often grapple with the tension between faith and doubt, the search for transcendence, and the moral dimensions of existence. "For the Time Being: A Christmas Oratorio" (1944) and "The Age of Anxiety" (1947) exemplify his deep engagement with religious and philosophical themes.

   c. Personal Relationships:

      Auden's poetry is also marked by a profound exploration of personal relationships and human connections. His elegiac poems, such as "In Memory of W. B. Yeats" (1939) and "In Memory of Sigmund Freud" (1940), reflect on the impact of the deaths of influential figures on the poet and society at large. His exploration of love, friendship, and loss adds a deeply human dimension to his body of work.

5. Versatile Style:

   Auden's poetic style evolved over the course of his career, showcasing remarkable versatility. His early poems often employed intricate rhyme schemes and formal structures. As he matured, Auden experimented with free verse and embraced a more conversational tone. Regardless of the form, his poetry maintained a precision and clarity that allowed complex ideas to resonate with readers. His ability to seamlessly blend traditional and modern elements contributed to the enduring appeal of his work.

6. Influence of Auden's Works:

   Auden's impact extends beyond his poetry; his essays, criticism, and collaborations with other artists have left an enduring legacy. His critical essays, such as "The Dyer's Hand" (1962), offer insightful reflections on literature, culture, and the responsibilities of the artist. As a teacher, Auden influenced a generation of poets, including Sylvia Plath and John Ashbery.

7. Later Years:

   In the 1950s and 1960s, Auden's poetic output continued, and he received numerous accolades, including the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1948 for "The Age of Anxiety." However, he became increasingly concerned about the ethical responsibilities of the artist, and his later poetry reflects a more introspective and meditative tone.

8. Legacy and Recognition:

   Auden's contributions to literature were widely recognized during his lifetime. In addition to the Pulitzer Prize, he received the National Book Award for Poetry in 1956 and the Bollingen Prize for Poetry in 1958. His influence on contemporary poets and his enduring relevance in academic circles attest to the lasting impact of his body of work.

9. Conclusion:

   W. H. Auden's life and poetry encapsulate a profound engagement with the complexities of human existence. From the early experimentation of the 1930s to the reflective introspection of his later years, Auden's poetry remains a testament to his keen intellect, linguistic prowess, and unwavering commitment to exploring the profound questions that define the human experience. His ability to navigate the realms of personal, political, and metaphysical thought has left an indelible mark on the literary canon, securing his place as one of the most influential poets of the 20th century.

6. Impact of 20th century in the poem.

The poem "The Unknown Citizen" by W.H. Auden serves as a poignant critique of the societal and political landscape of the 20th century. Through the lens of this poem, one can discern the profound impact of the century's events on individual identity, conformity, and the dehumanizing effects of bureaucracy. In exploring the multifaceted layers of Auden's work, we uncover a compelling narrative that reflects the turbulent times and the struggles for individuality within a rapidly changing world.

The 20th century was marked by unprecedented societal shifts, ranging from industrialization to the upheavals of two world wars. These transformative events laid the groundwork for the emergence of a new world order, characterized by technological advancements, mass production, and the rise of bureaucratic systems. Auden's "The Unknown Citizen" encapsulates the essence of this era, weaving a narrative that delves into the impact of these changes on the individual.

The poem presents an anonymous citizen whose life is meticulously documented and evaluated by the state. The language used in the poem mirrors the tone of an official report or document, emphasizing the dehumanizing consequences of reducing a person's existence to mere statistics. The opening lines set the stage, describing the citizen as "unmistakably a public monument," highlighting the irony of a life being memorialized without truly understanding the essence of that life.

In the 20th century, the world witnessed the rise of mass production and industrialization on an unprecedented scale. The assembly line mentality, epitomized by figures like Henry Ford, led to increased efficiency but also contributed to a sense of homogeneity. The poem reflects this trend, portraying the citizen as a product of societal mechanisms, with his life neatly categorized and standardized. The use of phrases such as "normal reactions," "proper opinions," and "satisfactory" underscores the expectation of conformity in this era.

The impact of World Wars I and II reverberates throughout the poem. The reference to "our Social Psychology workers" and "our Eugenic advisors" suggests a society that is not only surveilled but also molded to fit certain predetermined norms. The wars brought about a heightened sense of collectivism and patriotism, but they also gave rise to the erosion of individual identity in the face of state control. The unknown citizen becomes a casualty of this collective consciousness, stripped of personal agency and reduced to a mere statistic in the grand narrative of societal progress.

Totalitarian regimes and the rise of authoritarian governments were prevalent in the 20th century. The poem subtly critiques the dangers of a state that demands unwavering allegiance and conformity. The citizen's lack of a "record of broken appointments" implies a life devoid of dissent, a stark contrast to the tumultuous political climate of the century. The suppression of individual voices in the face of oppressive regimes finds resonance in the poem's portrayal of a citizen who conforms to societal expectations without question.

The poem's emphasis on material success as a measure of worth reflects the capitalist ideologies that gained prominence in the 20th century. The citizen is lauded for his possessions, such as a "carburetor," a "phonograph," and a "radio." These material markers of success, however, mask the hollowness of a life that is devoid of deeper meaning or personal fulfillment. The poem serves as a commentary on the hollowness of a society that places value on external achievements at the expense of individual well-being and authentic human connections.

The advent of technology and mass communication in the 20th century had profound implications for how information was disseminated and consumed. The poem satirizes the role of the press in shaping public perception, noting that the citizen "held the proper opinions for the time of year." This line underscores the idea that opinions are not genuine expressions of individual thought but rather reflections of societal expectations, manipulated by external forces. The media's influence on public opinion became increasingly apparent during this era, raising questions about the authenticity of individual beliefs in the face of external influences.

The poem's title itself, "The Unknown Citizen," encapsulates the anonymity and facelessness that many individuals experienced in the 20th century. Rapid urbanization, the growth of megacities, and the impersonal nature of modern life contributed to a sense of alienation and anonymity. The individual became a mere cog in the machinery of society, a sentiment echoed in the poem's portrayal of a citizen whose identity is obscured by bureaucratic language and societal expectations.

Auden's work can be seen as a response to the challenges and complexities of the 20th century, urging readers to question the cost of progress and the erosion of individuality in the face of societal expectations. The unknown citizen becomes a symbol of the silent masses, those who conform to societal norms without questioning the implications of their actions. The poem challenges the notion of progress if it comes at the expense of individual freedom and authentic human expression.

In conclusion, "The Unknown Citizen" by W.H. Auden serves as a profound commentary on the impact of the 20th century on individual identity, conformity, and the dehumanizing effects of bureaucracy. Through its satirical lens, the poem delves into the societal shifts brought about by industrialization, world wars, authoritarian regimes, capitalism, and technological advancements. The unknown citizen becomes a symbol of the collective individual, whose life is shaped and defined by external forces, leading to a loss of personal agency and authentic self-expression. Auden's work challenges readers to reflect on the cost of progress and the importance of preserving individuality in the face of societal expectations.