Concerning the Trouser-Crease
The work explores the concept of fashion, specifically focusing on the trouser crease, and its significance in male attire. It begins by asserting that while Britannia may rule the waves, she also dominates fashion trends, particularly in men's clothing. The narrative humorously suggests that despite royal decrees attempting to dictate the orientation of trouser creases, no one has ever adopted a lateral crease, highlighting the absurdity of such mandates. The text posits two main reasons for this phenomenon. The first is commercialism; there is no financial incentive for tailors to alter the traditional crease, as it does not affect their profits. The second reason questions the validity of the royal edicts themselves, suggesting they may be mere fabrications. The author then imagines a scenario where an inventive tailor creates a permanent crease on the sides of trousers. This hypothetical shift raises questions about human locomotion and whether people would adapt their movement to align with the new crease orientation. The narrative draws a parallel to crabs, which have a similar crease formation on the sides of their legs, and humorously speculates on the implications of such a change for human behavior. Ultimately, the work serves as a satirical commentary on the rigidity of fashion norms and the resistance to change within the tailoring profession, while also reflecting on the broader implications of conformity and individual choice in society.
By Oliver Herford · First published 1910 · Genre: Satire, Humor, Essay · 874 words
First lines
It may perchance be questioned how long Britannia shall continue to rule the waves, but that she will ever cease to rule the fashions (the male fashions, I mean) is beyond the dreams of the boldest tailor or the maddest hatter.
Nevertheless, every rule has its exception and the Rule of Fashion is no exception to the rule that rules that every rule has its exception.
What this Textopian page supports
Concerning the Trouser-Crease is listed on Textopian as an essay by Oliver Herford, dated 1910 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Oliver Herford
- Date: 1910 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Humor, Essay, Social Commentary, Fiction
- Length: 874 words
- Structure: 1 section, 25 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Satire — The book humorously critiques societal norms and fashion, particularly focusing on the absurdity of the trouser-crease.
- Humor — The writing employs wit and playful language to entertain readers while discussing a trivial subject.
- Essay — The work presents a reflective and analytical exploration of fashion and its implications, resembling an essay format.
- Social Commentary — It comments on the influence of fashion and commercialism on individual choices and societal behavior.
Tags
Satire · Social Commentary · Humor · Literary Fiction · Absurdism · Philosophical · Poetic · Irony · Sarcasm · Critique of Society · Commentary on Human Nature · Existentialism