
Virtue is its own Reward
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.
What this Textopian page supports
Virtue is its own Reward is listed on Textopian as a poem by Harry Graham, dated 1927 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: 1927 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Poetry, Humor, Social Commentary, Philosophical
- Length: 1,456 words
- Structure: 1 section, 25 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for Virtue is its own Reward by Harry Graham
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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- How does this poem by Harry Graham fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles
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.
Tags
Satire · Dark Humor · Proverbial Parody · Social Commentary · Morality Play · Absurdity · Irony · Cynicism · Anti-Heroism · Subversion of Expectations · Black Comedy · Wit
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