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!
Similar titles
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- Horace I 18 by Eugene Field
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- 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
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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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