HORACE ON HIS MUSCLE. (Epode VI.)
The poem describes a scene where Horace is flexing his muscles to impress a group of maidens who are watching him from a distance. He is trying to show off his strength and masculinity, but the poem suggests that he may be overestimating his abilities and that his efforts are ultimately futile.
By Eugene Field · First published 1893 · Genre: Satire, Lyric Poetry, Classical Literature · 164 words
First lines
You (blatant coward that you are! ) Upon the helpless vent your spite; Suppose you ply your trade on me -- Come, monkey with this bard and see How I'll repay your bark with bite!
Ay, snarl just once at me, you brute! And I shall hound you far and wide, As fiercely as through drifted snow The shepherd dog pursues what foe Skulks on the Spartan mountain side!
The chip is on my shoulder, see? But touch it and I'll raise your fur; I'm full of business; so beware, For, though I'm loaded up for bear, I'm quite as likely to kill a cur!
What this Textopian page supports
HORACE ON HIS MUSCLE. (Epode VI.) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Eugene Field, dated 1893 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Eugene Field
- Date: 1893 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Lyric Poetry, Classical Literature, Humor, Epic Poetry
- Length: 164 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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- Work identity for HORACE ON HIS MUSCLE. (Epode VI.) by Eugene Field
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- Horace I 18 by Eugene Field
- Horace I 20 by Eugene Field
- Horace To Maecenas by Eugene Field
- Horace To Pyrrha by Eugene Field
- Epigram From The French Of Rulhieres by Lord Byron
Genres
- Satire — The poem critiques cowardice and bravado, using humor and irony to convey its message.
- Lyric Poetry — The work expresses personal emotions and thoughts, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Classical Literature — It draws on themes and styles reminiscent of classical works, particularly those of Horace.
- Humor — The playful tone and witty language contribute to its humorous elements.
Tags
Satire · Ancient Rome · Poetry · Humor · Irony · Social commentary · Classical allusion · Mythology · Gods and goddesses · Roman culture · Literary device · Wit