The poem begins with a speaker expressing gratitude to a nobleman for a fine haunch of venison, describing its visual appeal and contemplating whether to eat it or display it as art. The speaker reflects on the nature of sharing food, considering friends who might appreciate the meat. An acquaintance arrives, eager to take the venison for a dinner party, insisting on hosting the speaker despite the latter's reservations about the guest list. The speaker attends the dinner, expecting notable guests like Johnson and Burke, but is disappointed to learn they will not come. Instead, the host introduces two lesser-known guests, a Scottish man and a Jew, who are both enthusiastic about the meal. The dinner features unappealing dishes for the speaker, who dislikes tripe and bacon, while the other guests enjoy the food. As the dinner progresses, the anticipation for the venison pasty grows, but it is delayed due to a mishap with the baker. The speaker's frustration mounts as the guests continue to chatter and express their eagerness for the pasty, which ultimately never arrives. The poem concludes with a reflection on the futility of sending such verses to someone with refined taste, suggesting that the nobleman may not appreciate the effort. The speaker acknowledges the complexities of social gatherings and the often disappointing nature of expectations surrounding food and companionship.
By Oliver Goldsmith · First published 1765 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Humor