218 Results with the "Poetry" genre
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Ballad: The Baby’s Vengeance
In the evocative ballad "The Baby's Vengeance" from "The Bab Ballads," we are introduced to the grievous tale of Paley Voltaire of Bromptonville, who lies feverishly ill in a dirty lodging near the Polygon, Somers Town. The poem unfurls the life of Paley, an only child who has squandered an immense inheritance to the point of destitution, haunted by his bad decisions and nearing death. Recommended by a doctor to seek recovery in Madeira, a suggestion Paley cannot afford to follow, he instead requests the…-
69.1 K • Ongoing
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Ballad: Lost Mr. Blake
In the ballad "Lost Mr. Blake" from The Bab Ballads, we meet Mr. Blake, a notorious sinner far removed from the norms of respectable Christianity. His weekly routines flaunt conventional piety, including indulging in tobacco and alcohol on Sundays. Despite his disregard for ecclesiastical propriety, such as mocking the disputes over clerical vestments and showing disdain for charity that does not involve direct giving, Blake lives by a code uniquely his own, ignoring societal and religious…-
69.1 K • Ongoing
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Ballad: Lieutenant-Colonel Flare
In the ballad "Lieutenant-Colel Flare," the narrator celebrates an unparalleled military unit headed by Colonel Flare, distinguished not by martial prowess but by brotherly love and moral integrity. Unlike typical soldiers, Colonel Flare's men are depicted as innocuous and gentle, abstaining from vices common among their ilk, embodying innocence to the extent of engaging in activities like tatting or doll-nursing — pursuits far removed from the conventional soldierly demeanor. Colonel Flare's leadership…-
69.1 K • Ongoing
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Ballad: Pasha Bailey Ben
In "Pasha Bailey Ben," a ballad within *The Bab Ballads*, we encounter the dignified yet stout Pasha Bailey Ben, a figure of pride with ten tails and three wives. His life, filled with peculiar presents from pilgrims, showcases the diverse and odd forms of adoration he receives, ranging from onions to cold boiled beef and even telescopes. These varied gifts, seemingly incongruent – like white kid gloves, candlesticks, and potted quails – emphasize the pasha's broad albeit curious influence. Central to…-
69.1 K • Ongoing
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Ballad: Little Oliver
In "Little Oliver," Earl Joyce, an eighty-two-year-old nobleman, lives contented yet troubled by gout, with his exceptional daughter, Lady Minnie-Haha Joyce. Named for her enchanting voice, Minnie-Haha, interpreted as "Laughing Water," is a magnet for suitors due to her stunning beauty and charm. Amidst her high-born admirers, Oliver, a page of modest means and no title, quietly adores her from afar. His love is deep, albeit he recognizes the futility of his desires due to their different social…-
69.1 K • Ongoing
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Ballad: The Two Ogres
"The Two Ogres" in *The Bab Ballads* spins a whimsical yet moralistic tale, perfectly suited for both obedient and mischievous children. This ballad, set in the magical Wickham Wold, introduces us to two distinct ogres representing the extremes of good and evil. The younger ogre is as virtuous as the elder is vile, embodying the dichotomy of character in fantastical form. James M'Alpine, the elder, is a creature of base desires, indulging his appetite with a ruthless efficiency that targets well-behaved…-
69.1 K • Ongoing
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In "The Bumboat Woman's Story," an elderly woman reminisces about her youthful days at sea and her affection for Lieutenant Belaye, a naval officer. Once thriving in her sixties, known for her charm and beloved by the Royal Fleet for her lively eyes, she provided for the ships in Portsmouth Bay, including the HOT CROSS BUN commanded by the kind-hearted Lieutenant Belaye. The lieutenant, skilled in maximizing the prestige of his small gunboat, deceives casual inquiry by conflating its tonnage with the…
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69.1 K • Ongoing
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Ballad: Mister William
In "Mister William," a ballad from "The Bab Ballads," we are introduced to the tale of Mr. William, a character who leads a life of respectability and kindness but is tempted into committing a crime purely to experience vice. He rationalizes that a single act of wickedness after a lifetime of virtue will not tarnish his reputation, comparing his planned sin to the innocent misbehaviors of a child, suggesting that minor sins can accumulate over time if not addressed. William decides against petty theft,…-
69.1 K • Ongoing
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Story
More Bab Ballads
More Bab Ballads by W.S. Gilbert is a collection of humorous and satirical poems that feature witty rhymes, whimsical characters, and clever wordplay, often poking fun at social conventions, love, and human folly, in the distinctive style for which Gilbert is known.-
2.0 K • Nov 8, '24
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1.4 K • Nov 8, '24
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2.3 K • Nov 8, '24
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Lazarus
In "Lazarus," the poem delves into the complex emotions and philosophical inquiries stirred by Lazarus's return from the dead. Mary and Martha, Lazarus's sisters, grapple with their brother's resurrection, experiencing a maelstrom of confusion, fear, and longing for understanding. Martha, feeling as though their brother remains distant even in presence, express her anguish and frustration to Mary, urging her to bridge the emotional gap Lazarus's resurrection has imposed. Meanwhile, Mary confronts the…-
29.4 K • Ongoing
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