Unsuspecting from The Collected Poems of Jean Toomer There is a natty kind of mind That slicks its thoughts, Culls its oughts, Trims its views, Prunes its trues, And never suspects it is a rind. This poem is short and sweet. It is not particularly metaphorical or philosophical, so it is easy to get its message. This poem basically says that some people do not realize that, to put it bluntly, they do not think as well or as clearly as others. It can also be referring to people who are arrogant and full of themselves, and they never see this as wrong. It can also be interpreted as saying that people who never spend some time on self-reflection end up that way. This goes back to Jean Toomer's opinion on the American's societal views and values versus what they actually should be. Few stop to think about if they are doing what would actually be worthwhile, or if they are just stuck in a routine rut. Since he is a follower and student of G. I. Gurdjieff, this would make sense, as Gurdjieff is a strong advocate of reflection and "purification" of the mind and body. He also teaches against being too attached to material goods and pride.
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