Virtue is its own Reward by Harry Graham

Name: Virtue is its own Reward
Author: Harry Graham

This collection of satirical poems subverts common sayings and proverbs to expose the hypocrisy and moral decay of society. The speaker presents a series of witty and biting critiques of societal norms, revealing the darker aspects of human nature beneath the surface of conventional wisdom. Through clever wordplay and irony, the poet highlights the disconnect between what people claim to value and their actual behavior.

By Harry Graham · First published 1927 · Genre: Satire, Poetry, Humor · 1,456 words

First lines

Virtue its own reward? Alas! / And what a poor one, as a rule! / Be Virtuous, and Life will pass / Like one long term of Sunday-school. / (No prospect, truly, could one find / More unalluring to the mind.)

The Model Child has got to keep / His fingers and his garments white; / In church he may not go to sleep, / Nor ask to stop up late at night. / In fact he must not ever do / A single thing he wishes to.

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Virtue is its own Reward is listed on Textopian as a poem by Harry Graham, dated 1927 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Harry Graham
Date: 1927 CE
Language: English
Genres: Satire, Poetry, Humor, Social Commentary, Philosophical
Length: 1,456 words
Structure: 1 section, 25 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genres

Satire — The work uses humor and irony to critique societal norms and moral values, particularly the concept of virtue.
Poetry — The text is structured in verse form, employing rhyme and meter to convey its themes.
Humor — The writing style is light-hearted and comedic, aiming to entertain while delivering its critique.
Social Commentary — The work reflects on and critiques social behaviors and expectations, particularly those related to morality and success.