Don't be Bad by Gelett Burgess

Name: Don't be Bad
Author: Gelett Burgess

"Don't be Bad" by Gelett Burgess is a collection of humorous poems and stories that satirize human behavior and social norms. The book includes the famous poem "The Purple Cow," which pokes fun at the idea of searching for something that doesn't exist. Other notable works in the collection include "The Rubaiyat of Omar Cayenne" and "The Maxims of Methuselah."

By Gelett Burgess · First published 1905 · Genre: Children's Literature, Poetry, Moral Instruction · 38 words

First lines

Just as long as you dare to be, / Because your mother doesn't see.

Do not wait for her to scold, / But be just as good as gold!

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Don't be Bad is listed on Textopian as a short story by Gelett Burgess, dated 1905 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Short story
Author: Gelett Burgess
Date: 1905 CE
Language: English
Genres: Children's Literature, Poetry, Moral Instruction
Length: 38 words
Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs

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Genres

Children's Literature — The content is directed towards children, with a focus on behavior and moral lessons.
Poetry — The text is structured in verse, using rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
Moral Instruction — The theme centers around teaching good behavior and moral values.