Precis: "The Modern Prometheus"

In “The Modern Prometheus,” JJ Kampf ascertains with a humorous tone that sometimes one must go against the rules to achieve ultimate happiness. He creates the idea through his unique style and allusion to the myth of Prometheus. The poem follows a similar style throughout its entirety. The babysitter discusses what the children are doing wrong, while spliced within the story are the directions from the parents. The children eat “sour chewies,” while the parents cautioned against any “sugary candy.” Although the babysitter goes against the parents, he/she does it for the sake of the children who “smiled.” Additionally, Kampf compares the rebellion of this babysitter to that of the titan, Prometheus, who gave fire to the people. The titan wanted the people to be happy, which is why it is alluded to in the poem. These two characters had the same intentions. JJ Kampf highlights the importance of rebellion for the goal of happiness through his allusion and style.