Whooping-Cough (Childish Complaints)

Name: Whooping-Cough (Childish Complaints)
Author: Harry Graham

The narrative revolves around a young boy's struggles with whooping cough and the various reactions of those around him. The story explores themes of illness, isolation, and the impact on family dynamics. Through the boy's experiences, the text critiques societal expectations and the treatment of children during this period.

By Harry Graham · First published 1904 · Genre: Humor, Children's Literature, Poetry · 49 words

First lines

If only I had Whooping-cough! I'd join a Circus troupe! And folks would clamour at the door, And pay a shilling -- even more, To see me 'Whoop The Whoop. '

What this Textopian page supports

Whooping-Cough (Childish Complaints) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Harry Graham, dated 1904 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: 1904 CE
Language: English
Genres: Humor, Children's Literature, Poetry, Satire
Length: 49 words
Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Whooping-Cough (Childish Complaints) by Harry Graham
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
Readability and classroom-planning context
Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering Whooping-Cough (Childish Complaints)?
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 a humorous tone to express a whimsical desire for whooping-cough as a means to join a circus.
Children's Literature — The playful and imaginative nature of the poem aligns with themes commonly found in children's literature.
Poetry — The work is structured as a poem, utilizing rhyme and meter to convey its message.
Satire — The exaggerated wish for an illness to gain fame satirizes societal obsessions with entertainment and spectacle.