Be the Best of Whatever You Are

Douglas Malloch's Be the Best of Whatever You Are

"Be the Best of Whatever You Are" by Douglas Malloch is an inspirational and encouraging poem that emphasizes the importance of individuality, self-worth, and perseverance. Through simple but evocative language, Malloch communicates a powerful message: success is not defined by the role one plays, but by the effort and integrity with which one performs it. This poem, using a series of metaphors and comparisons, urges readers to embrace their unique strengths and contributions, regardless of their scale or perceived importance. Below is a detailed analysis of the poem’s themes, structure, and literary devices.

Introduction

The poem uses a series of natural metaphors to illustrate its central idea that individuals should strive to be the best version of themselves in any given role. Malloch begins by suggesting that one does not need to aspire to be the most prominent or impressive figure but should instead embrace and excel in whatever position they hold. This sentiment reflects values of humility, self-acceptance, and dedication. By addressing readers with repeated “if” clauses, Malloch sets up hypothetical situations that resonate with universal experiences of feeling “small” or “insignificant.” Yet, each stanza reinforces the notion that even the humblest roles contribute meaningfully to the broader landscape.

Stanza-by-Stanza Analysis

Stanza 1

If you can't be a pine on the top of the hill
    Be a scrub in the valley—but be
  The best little scrub by the side of the rill;
    Be a bush if you can't be a tree.

In the opening lines, Malloch presents a contrast between being a “pine on the top of the hill” and a “scrub in the valley.” The “pine” symbolizes greatness or prominence, standing tall and elevated. However, the poet does not denigrate the lesser “scrub”; instead, he asserts that even a scrub can have worth if it is the “best little scrub by the side of the rill.” This metaphor suggests that no matter one’s status or size, value is determined by dedication and excellence. The phrase “side of the rill” (small stream) imbues this vision with pastoral imagery, emphasizing that modest surroundings do not lessen the beauty or value of a humble entity.

Stanza 2

If you can't be a bush be a bit of the grass,
    And some highway some happier make;
  If you can't be a muskie then just be a bass—
    But the liveliest bass in the lake!

This stanza further expands on the theme of embracing one’s role, however humble it may be. Here, the imagery shifts from trees and bushes to grass and fish, highlighting different forms of life that, while seemingly minor, bring joy and value to the world. By saying “And some highway some happier make,” Malloch implies that even “a bit of the grass” can enhance the surroundings, suggesting that even the smallest contributions add to a collective beauty or happiness. The “muskie” versus “bass” comparison similarly advises readers not to concern themselves with striving for an ideal beyond their reach, but rather to excel within their own capabilities. The phrase “liveliest bass in the lake” brings vibrancy and energy, suggesting that vitality and passion are more important than grandeur.

Stanza 3

We can't all be captains, we've got to be crew,
    There's something for all of us here.
  There's big work to do and there's lesser to do,
    And the task we must do is the near.

In this stanza, Malloch transitions from natural imagery to a metaphor about roles on a ship. This metaphor resonates with communal values, suggesting that society requires both leaders (“captains”) and followers (“crew”) to function. Malloch emphasizes egalitarianism by pointing out that there is “something for all of us here,” acknowledging that all tasks, whether “big” or “lesser,” have value. His statement that “the task we must do is the near” underscores the importance of focusing on one’s immediate responsibilities. This line advocates for a grounded approach to life, where individuals concentrate on what they can directly influence, rather than being distracted by distant aspirations.

Stanza 4

If you can't be a highway then just be a trail,
    If you can't be the sun be a star;
  It isn't by size that you win or you fail—
    Be the best of whatever you are!

The final stanza reinforces the central theme with a decisive tone. By contrasting “highway” with “trail” and “sun” with “star,” Malloch implies that even smaller, less noticeable paths and lights have purpose. The line “It isn’t by size that you win or you fail” serves as a culmination of his argument, rejecting societal measures of success based on prominence or grandeur. Instead, Malloch insists that true success lies in fulfilling one’s role wholeheartedly—an idea encapsulated in the final, emphatic line, “Be the best of whatever you are!” This closing imperative echoes the poem’s overall tone of encouragement, leaving the reader with a sense of empowerment and self-assurance.

Literary Devices and Style

Malloch employs metaphor extensively throughout the poem, using nature and occupation as analogies to emphasize his message. The metaphors of “pine,” “scrub,” “bush,” and “grass” all evoke different forms of life with varying degrees of prominence, yet each plays a vital role in its environment. The ship metaphor with “captains” and “crew” effectively illustrates the necessity of both leaders and supporters in any community.

The structure of the poem is straightforward, with an ABAB rhyme scheme that gives it a rhythmic, almost song-like quality. This structure reinforces the poem’s optimistic and accessible message. Malloch’s choice of simple language, coupled with repetitive structures like “If you can’t be...,” allows the poem’s meaning to remain clear and direct, reaching a broad audience.

The tone is one of reassurance and encouragement, and Malloch’s diction is humble and familiar, making the poem relatable to readers from various walks of life. Through the repetition of phrases such as “If you can’t be…” and “be the best of whatever you are,” the poet instills a message of acceptance and motivation without appearing didactic.

Conclusion

Douglas Malloch’s “Be the Best of Whatever You Are” is a timeless piece that celebrates humility, perseverance, and individuality. By grounding his message in vivid natural and occupational metaphors, Malloch connects deeply with the reader, emphasizing that success is not about being the most visible or celebrated but about being true to oneself and contributing meaningfully, regardless of the scale. The poem resonates as a universal reminder to embrace our roles with dignity and enthusiasm, embodying the best version of ourselves, whatever that may be.