A Ballade of a Book-Reviewer
A Ballade of a Book-Reviewer is a poem written by G.K. Chesterton that satirizes the profession of book reviewing. The poem describes a reviewer who is constantly criticizing books, but never actually reading them. It pokes fun at the pretentiousness and superficiality of some literary critics.
By G.K. Chesterton · First published 1905 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Literary Criticism · 274 words
First lines
I have not read a rotten page Of "Sex-Hate" or "The Social Test,"
And here comes "Husks" and "Heritage".
O Moses, give us all a rest!
"Ethics of Empire"! . I protest I will not even cut the strings, I'll read "Jack Redskin on the Quest"
What this Textopian page supports
A Ballade of a Book-Reviewer is listed on Textopian as a poem by G.K. Chesterton, dated 1905 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: G.K. Chesterton
- Date: 1905 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Satire, Literary Criticism, Humor
- Length: 274 words
- Structure: 1 section, 13 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Satire — The text employs humor and irony to critique literary trends and societal norms.
- Literary Criticism — The content reflects on and critiques contemporary literature and cultural works.
- Humor — The tone and style are light-hearted and comedic, aiming to entertain while delivering its critique.
Tags
literature · book review · poetry · critique · humor · satire · art · writing · reading · opinion · creativity · expression