The Flower Circus by Oliver Herford
"The Flower Circus" by Oliver Herford is a whimsical poem that describes a fantastical circus show put on by flowers in a dell. The narrator, invited as an honored guest, dresses in his finest attire to attend this rare event. The show features a variety of floral performers, each with unique talents. A columbine rides a horse-chestnut steed, jumping through cobweb rings with grace and speed. Scarlet Runners race around the ring, and the winner is crowned with dew. The Johnny-jump-up Brothers perform comedic tricks, while a spider dances on a gossamer thread. Other acts include Harebell ringers and trained Dog-violets. The grand finale features Mignonette fearlessly entering a cage with her pet Dandelion, the "lion" of the show. The poem captures the enchanting and imaginative spectacle of the flower circus.
By Oliver Herford · First published 1908 · Genre: Poetry, Children's Literature, Fantasy · 622 words
First lines
The flowers in the dell Once gave a circus show; And as I know them well, They asked if I would go As their especial guest. "Quite charmed! " said I, and so Put on my very best Frock-coat and shiny hat, And my embroidered vest And wonderful cravat; In fact, no end of style, For it is, as you know, But once in a great while The flowers give a show.
They gave me a front seat, The very nicest there -- A bank of violets sweet And moss and maidenhair. 'Twas going to be a treat -- I felt it in the air.
What this Textopian page supports
The Flower Circus is listed on Textopian as a short story by Oliver Herford, dated 1908 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Oliver Herford
- Date: 1908 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Children's Literature, Fantasy, Nonsense Literature, Humor
- Length: 622 words
- Structure: 1 section, 18 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Flower Circus by Oliver Herford
- 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 Flower Circus?
- How does this short story by Oliver Herford fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Genres
- Poetry — The work is composed entirely in verse, featuring consistent rhyme and rhythm that define its poetic form.
- Children's Literature — Its whimsical language, imaginative imagery, and playful narrative style appeal strongly to a young audience.
- Fantasy — The anthropomorphic flowers and surreal circus setting create a fantastical world beyond ordinary reality.
- Nonsense Literature — The absurd and unconventional scenarios align with the tradition of literary nonsense, emphasizing whimsy and surreal humor.
Tags
whimsical · surreal · playful · imaginative · metaphorical · humorous · absurd · colorful · lyrical · satirical · quirky · fantastical