The Model Motorist (Rhymes for the Times)

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

This collection of humorous poems satirizes the social conventions and behaviors of the time, particularly those related to driving and road safety. The poems are written in a lighthearted and playful style, using rhyming couplets to convey their message. They poke fun at the pretensions and hypocrisy of the middle class, as well as the dangers and absurdities of early 20th-century motoring culture.

By Harry Graham · First published 1904 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Humor · 507 words

First lines

[Sir Thomas Lipton, when stopped by the Chertsey police for 'scorching,' remarked: 'You have your duty to do, boys. I have always found you to be correct. I'm sorry. ']

Ye murderous, motoring scorchers, With manners of Gadarene hogs, Inflicting unspeakable tortures On children and chickens and dogs; Alarming your fellows with hoots and with bellows, And filling their infants with terror, Their cattle stampeding, and never conceding That _you_ could perhaps be in error, Who fall upon Fido and squash little Florrie, And hasten away without saying you're sorry!

What this Textopian page supports

The Model Motorist (Rhymes for the Times) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Harry Graham, dated 1904 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Harry Graham
Date: 1904 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Satire, Humor, Social Commentary, Narrative Poetry
Length: 507 words
Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyming lines, characteristic of poetry.
Satire — The text uses humor and irony to critique the behavior of motorists, particularly focusing on their disregard for safety and manners.
Humor — The playful language and exaggerated scenarios are intended to amuse the reader.
Social Commentary — The poem comments on societal issues related to motoring and public behavior, reflecting on contemporary attitudes.