The Choice (Rhymes for the Times)

Name: The Choice (Rhymes for the Times)
Author: Harry Graham

This collection of poems satirizes societal norms and conventions during World War I. It critiques the romanticization of war and the patriotic fervor that accompanied it. The poems often use humor and irony to highlight the contradictions between the ideals of patriotism and the harsh realities of war.

By Harry Graham · First published 1911 · Genre: Humor, Satire, Poetry · 381 words

First lines

[A well-known lady dog-fancier informed a representative of the _Daily Mirror_ that, in case of fire, she would most certainly save her dog rather than her husband.]

'Go! Sound the fire alarm! ' she cried. 'My house is all ablaze inside! 'The flames are spreading far and wide; 'The air with smoke is laden! 'My darling's in an upper room! 'Oh, save him from a fiery tomb! ' Straight, as she spoke, through sparks and fume Came brave Lieutenant Sladen. Quoth he: 'The horsed-escape is here, ma'am; 'We'll save your husband, never fear, ma'am!'

What this Textopian page supports

The Choice (Rhymes for the Times) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Harry Graham, dated 1911 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: 1911 CE
Language: English
Genres: Humor, Satire, Poetry, Domestic Fiction
Length: 381 words
Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Work identity for The Choice (Rhymes for the Times) by Harry Graham
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
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Discussion starters

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

Similar titles

Genres

Humor — The poem uses wit and irony to highlight the absurdity of the situation, where a woman prioritizes her dog over her husband during a fire.
Satire — The work critiques societal values and relationships by exaggerating the woman's preference for her pet over her spouse, reflecting on human nature and priorities.
Poetry — The structure and style of the work, including rhyme and meter, classify it as poetry, focusing on rhythm and sound.
Domestic Fiction — The narrative revolves around domestic life and relationships, particularly the dynamics between a wife, her husband, and her pet.