The Microbe by Hilaire Belloc (1903)
This work is a satirical novel that explores the lives of microbes and their interactions with humans. The story follows a group of microbes living on a human body, observing and commenting on the host's daily activities. Through this unique perspective, the novel critiques societal norms and conventions, highlighting the absurdities of human behavior.
By Hilaire Belloc · First published 1903 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Children's Literature · 149 words
First lines
The Microbe is so very small You cannot make him out at all, But many sanguine people hope To see him through a microscope.
His jointed tongue that lies beneath A hundred curious rows of teeth; His seven tufted tails with lots Of lovely pink and purple spots,
On each of which a pattern stands, Composed of forty separate bands; His eyebrows of a tender green; All these have never yet been seen -- But Scientists, who ought to know, Assure us that they must be so. .
Oh! let us never, never doubt What nobody is sure about!
What this Textopian page supports
The Microbe is listed on Textopian as a poem by Hilaire Belloc, dated 1903 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Hilaire Belloc
- Date: 1903 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Humor, Children's Literature, Science Fiction, Satire
- Length: 149 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Microbe by Hilaire Belloc
- 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 The Microbe?
- How does this poem by Hilaire Belloc fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Humor — The playful and whimsical description of the microbe and the satirical tone suggest a humorous intent.
- Children's Literature — The simple language and imaginative depiction of the microbe make it suitable for a younger audience.
- Science Fiction — The speculative and imaginative elements about the microbe's appearance align with science fiction themes.
Tags
Satirical · Scientific · Humorous · Educational · Fictionalized · Biographical · Historical · Medical · Philosophical · Social Commentary · Literary Fiction · Non-Fictional Elements