The Model Farm (Rhymes for the Times)

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

This satirical poem collection critiques British society and politics during World War I. It portrays the upper class as out of touch with reality and the working class as exploited. The poems use humor to highlight social injustices, including poverty, inequality, and the effects of war on civilians.

By Harry Graham · First published 1917 · Genre: Satire, Humor, Poetry · 408 words

First lines

['If you want good milk, butter, cheese, beef, mutton, and bacon, keep the animals which supply these things amused -- give them toys, in fact. ' -- The _Daily Mirror_.]

When a friend after breakfast some compliment pays To the nourishment recently taken, When he mentions the eggs with expressions of praise, And says flattering things of the bacon, I conduct him at once to my farm on the Downs Which is managed so blithely and brightly That the brows of my cows are unwrinkled by frowns And my chickens are jocund and sprightly, Where dogs in their kennels avoid being snappy, And ev'ry dumb creature is healthy and happy.

What this Textopian page supports

The Model Farm (Rhymes for the Times) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Harry Graham, dated 1917 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: 1917 CE
Language: English
Genres: Satire, Humor, Poetry, Social Commentary, Fable
Length: 408 words
Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Work identity for The Model Farm (Rhymes for the Times) by Harry Graham
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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Satire — The poem humorously critiques modern farming practices by suggesting that animals should be entertained to produce better products.
Humor — The playful and absurd scenarios of animals playing games and using toys create a comedic effect.
Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
Social Commentary — The poem offers a commentary on societal attitudes towards agriculture and animal welfare.