Money Madness (D.H. Lawrence)

 Introduction: The intriguing and insightful poem "Money Madness" by D.H. Lawrence explores the complexity and negative aspects of a fixation with money. Lawrence, in this poem examines materialism, greed, and the negative implications of placing material worth above all else in life.

Man’s Craziness: D.H. Lawrence's 'Money Madness' is a strong case against money's weakness. Lawrence begins the poem by stating that money craziness is a shared experience. He establishes the fact that money madness is widespread and rampant. However, Lawrence is quick to point out that just because the craziness is widespread, money-madness of an individual cannot be justified. Because communal craziness is only conceivable after individual crazy exists. As a result, the poet emphasizes that money-madness is a worldwide phenomenon. If the entire universe is insane, then every single person is insane as well.

Power of Money: He bemoans the fact that individuals are so frightened of losing their money if they give it generously. We are heartbroken if we lose even one pound. People shiver with fear and despair when they are given a quantity of money as large as ten pounds. We have become imprisoned by the shackles of financial power. It causes us to bow down and adore it. It has the ability to affect our ideas and actions.

Effect of  Money: Society terrifies the poet. When a guy is obsessed by money, he loses sight of what is truly essential in life. Financial difficulties are source of anxiety. Often, a man's wealth is used to evaluate him. Man makes others eat dirt in order to amass wealth. If man holds more money, he makes others eat dirt or beg for bread. But it is insane to place such a high value on something that may be lost in the blink of an eye. The more money you have, the more difficult it is to give it away. Money gives stress to a person, therefore man cowers before the money not before god.

Lawrence’s Suggestions: Lawrence thinks that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has the right to food, shelter, warmth, and freedom. But we shall continue to be puppets in the hands of money. Eventually, the entire planet will be consumed by hostility, hatred, jealousy, and insanity. It will continue to wreak havoc on people's lives. So, the society should ensure about the basic needs such as food, and shelter to everyone on this earth. Otherwise, financial catastrophe would take away the lives of men and the earth may turn into place where no man would be found. Hence Lawrence thinks that it is right time for him to give awareness to people about the negative impacts of money in men’s lives.  

Conclusion: “Money Madness” is a biting critique of today's consumerist society, which is centred on material prosperity and money. People nowadays are so consumed by the drive to amass wealth by staking morality. So, he advises people to get out from the condition of money-madness and to become sane and rational.