The Hydrant-Headed Monster
The poem presents a vivid and imaginative depiction of a monstrous entity characterized by its hydrant-like heads, which symbolizes the overwhelming presence of water and its associated dangers. The creature looms ominously against a darkening sky, casting a pall of despair over the land. The speaker, invoking the protection of Saint Paul, expresses a deep concern for the consequences of this water fiend's advance, which threatens to extinguish joy and vitality. The narrative unfolds as a plea for intervention against the encroaching menace of excessive water, which is portrayed as a destructive force. The speaker contrasts the virtues of temperance with the perils of indulgence, suggesting that unchecked consumption leads to dire consequences. The imagery evokes a sense of urgency and desperation, as the speaker fears the loss of love and happiness in the face of this watery threat. Throughout the work, the themes of moderation and the dangers of excess are explored, with the speaker advocating for a balanced approach to life's pleasures. The invocation of Saint Paul serves to underscore the moral dimension of the struggle against the monster, framing it as a battle between virtue and vice. The poem ultimately reflects on the broader implications of indulgence, warning against the potential for chaos and despair that can arise from succumbing to excess.
By Oliver Herford · First published 1910 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Fantasy · 195 words
First lines
Being an epistle to Paul. From Temperance
It comes! The monster rearing high, Against the lurid western sky, Its horrid, hissing Hydrant Heads, While o'er the shuddering land it sheds A dreary pall of waste and woe And chilling streams of H_{2}O.
Now saints defend us, one and all, And most especially Saint Paul, Thou patron saint of Honest Fighting And Common Sense and Letterwriting, Who one time, for his "stomach's sake," Bade Timothy the wine cup take; Stay now this Water Fiend's advance And save thy servant Temperance, Ere Abstinence, that glum wet-nurse Of Dire Dyspepsia, Chills, and worse, Blow out the Lights of Love and Mirth, And so asphyxiate the Earth.
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The Hydrant-Headed Monster 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: Poetry, Satire, Fantasy, Humor, Social Commentary
- Length: 195 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Satire — The poem critiques societal issues related to temperance and excess, using humor and exaggeration.
- Fantasy — The depiction of a monster with hydrant heads introduces fantastical elements.
- Humor — The tone and absurdity of the subject matter evoke a humorous response.
Tags
Fiction · Children's Literature · Fantasy · Adventure · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Illustrated Book · Classic Novel · Whimsical Storytelling · Imagination · Creativity