The Disposable Rocket - John Updike

Title: The Disposable Rocket

Author: John Updike

The author of the piece, John Updike, attended Harvard University where he focused on art and writing. He is famous for his short fiction stories, but the skill he is best known for his ability to express himself (even if it is blunt). His essay, The Disposable Rocket, is a fictional essay comparing the male body to the female body. He wants to convey to his audience – most likely males – that the male body is incredibly graceful and interesting.

Early on, Updike writes an anecdote about his childhood: “I used to fall and jump just for the joy of it. Falling – backwards, downstairs – became a specialty of mine” (paragraph 2). He uses this to transition to the idea that the only thing that seems to harm the male body is physical activity – that is, sports. He explains that his “hobby” of falling was one that took a toll on his body.

He goes on to discuss the longevity and intricacies of the male. He uses various metaphors to describe the male’s genitals: “a demon of sorts has been attached to their lower torsos, whose performance is erratic and whose errands, at times, seem ridiculous” (paragraph 5). He describes a fascinating sort of disconnect within the male body; Updike considers there to be two people within the male. However, as the essay progresses, Updike describes that this “disconnect” is something beautiful and is something to be appreciated. He uses personification to further characterize the body itself, which again assists him in sending his message.

John Updike successfully delivers his message. Although the male body can be unpredictable, if treated properly, it can last a long time. His essay was quite a strange one, about an awfully uncomfortable topic, but his bluntness and ability to get his points across in as little words possible make for a special piece.

We evolved like this for a reason.