The Haunch of Venison

Name: The Haunch of Venison
Author: Oliver Goldsmith

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 · 1,823 words

First lines

A POETICAL EPISTLE TO LORD CLARE

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The Haunch of Venison is listed on Textopian as a poem by Oliver Goldsmith, dated 1765 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Oliver Goldsmith
Date: 1765 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Satire, Humor, Social Commentary, Narrative Poetry
Length: 1,823 words
Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is a poetic epistle, characterized by its verse form and lyrical quality.
Satire — The poem critiques social customs and the pretensions of the upper class, using humor and irony.
Humor — The narrative employs wit and comedic situations, particularly in the portrayal of dinner guests and their interactions.
Social Commentary — The poem reflects on societal norms, dining etiquette, and the nature of friendship among intellectuals.