Stockings or Scales
The poem presents a whimsical exploration of the desire to be a mermaid, highlighting the allure of underwater life and the freedom it promises. The speaker imagines the joys of swimming instead of walking, adorned with shiny scales rather than cumbersome stockings. The appeal of a carefree existence, free from the constraints of human life—such as changing wet clothes and untied shoes—is vividly illustrated. However, this fantasy is tempered by the realization of the limitations that come with it. The speaker reflects on the joys of human traditions, particularly the anticipation of Christmas Eve and the ritual of hanging stockings. This moment of introspection reveals a conflict between the enchanting idea of being a mermaid and the cherished experiences of human life. Ultimately, the poem juxtaposes the carefree, magical existence of a mermaid with the warmth and familiarity of human customs, emphasizing the importance of both worlds. The speaker's longing for freedom is countered by a deep appreciation for the simple joys of life on land, culminating in a poignant recognition that some traditions are worth holding onto, even in the face of alluring fantasies.
By Oliver Herford · First published 1910 · Genre: Children's Poetry, Fantasy, Humor · 188 words
First lines
If I were asked of all things what I most would like to be, I'd choose to be a mermaid and live below the sea.
How nice, instead of walking, to swim around like little whales, And to wear, instead of stockings, many shiny pairs of scales, Which don't need changing every time that nurse says they are wet.
And then to have no shoes that always come untied! -- and yet --
What this Textopian page supports
Stockings or Scales is listed on Textopian as a poem 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: Poem
- Author: Oliver Herford
- Date: 1910 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Children's Poetry, Fantasy, Humor, Adventure, Literary Fiction
- Length: 188 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Stockings or Scales by Oliver Herford
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Stockings or Scales?
- How does this poem by Oliver Herford fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Genres
- Children's Poetry — The work is written in a playful, rhythmic style suitable for children, focusing on imaginative themes.
- Fantasy — The poem explores fantastical elements such as mermaids and underwater life, appealing to the imagination.
- Humor — The poem employs humor through the contrast between the joys of being a mermaid and the practicalities of human life.
- Adventure — The desire to explore the underwater world suggests themes of adventure and exploration.
Tags
Fiction · Poetry · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Literary Fiction · Verse Novel · 19th Century Literature · American Literature · English Language · Wordplay · Double Meaning