Modern Dancing (Rhymes for the Times)

Name: Modern Dancing (Rhymes for the Times)
Author: Harry Graham

The collection of poems satirizes modern life and societal norms through humorous rhymes. It critiques the superficiality and hypocrisy of urban culture, targeting topics like fashion, politics, and social etiquette. The tone is lighthearted yet biting, using irony to highlight the absurdities of modern society.

By Harry Graham · First published 1907 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Social Commentary · 352 words

First lines

When the Waltz was first invented, Grandmamma was much upset; Long she mourned, and loud lamented, Staid Quadrille and Minuet. In her eyes (a bit oldfashioned) Waltzing called for condemnation, As a somewhat too empassioned Form of social relaxation! Grandma, with averted head, Swept her daughters home to bed!

When the practice of 'reversing' Revolutionised the dance, Dear Mamma was heard aspersing Fashions introduced from France. With invectives harsh and stinging She abused those youthful dancers Who were over fond of 'swinging' Partners in the Kitchen Lancers; Ragging, as a ballroom sport, Made Mamma get up and snort!

What this Textopian page supports

Modern Dancing (Rhymes for the Times) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Harry Graham, dated 1907 CE.

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

Work type: Poem
Author: Harry Graham
Date: 1907 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Satire, Social Commentary, Humor, Historical
Length: 352 words
Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Modern Dancing (Rhymes for the Times) by Harry Graham
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
Readability and classroom-planning context
Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering Modern Dancing (Rhymes for the Times)?
How does this poem by Harry Graham fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyming lines, characteristic of poetry.
Satire — The text uses humor and irony to critique social norms and dance trends.
Social Commentary — The poem reflects on changing social attitudes towards dance and generational differences.
Humor — The playful language and exaggerated descriptions aim to amuse the reader.