Wm. H. Clare by Ring Lardner (1922)
The narrative unfolds through a series of letters written by a character who is a government official in Chicago. The correspondence reveals the character's cynical perspective on politics, bureaucracy, and the social dynamics of the time. The protagonist expresses skepticism about the integrity of newly appointed officials, particularly focusing on the Collector of Customs. The letters highlight the character's disillusionment with the political system, emphasizing the pervasive corruption and inefficiency within government institutions. The protagonist's observations often blend humor with sharp criticism, reflecting a broader commentary on societal norms and the human condition. As the correspondence progresses, the character's personal life and relationships come into focus, revealing a complex interplay between professional duties and personal desires. The protagonist grapples with the challenges of maintaining integrity in a corrupt environment while navigating the expectations of colleagues and superiors. The work captures the essence of early 20th-century American life, illustrating the struggles of individuals against a backdrop of systemic flaws. The tone oscillates between sardonic wit and poignant reflection, creating a rich tapestry of character development and thematic exploration. Ultimately, the narrative serves as a critique of the American political landscape, exposing the contradictions and moral ambiguities faced by those within it. The protagonist's voice resonates with readers, inviting them to reflect on the nature of authority, responsibility, and the quest for authenticity in a flawed world.
By Ring Lardner · First published 1922 · Genre: Satire, Comedy, Political Fiction · 50 words
First lines
U. S. Government Official, Chicago I hear they've appointed this guy Collector of Customs in Chi.
I wish we could trust him To unearth the custom Of buying a drink when you're dry.
What this Textopian page supports
Wm. H. Clare is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ring Lardner, dated 1922 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Ring Lardner
- Date: 1922 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Comedy, Political Fiction, Social Commentary, Short Story
- Length: 50 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Wm. H. Clare by Ring Lardner
- 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 Wm. H. Clare?
- How does this poem by Ring Lardner fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Satire first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Satire — The book critiques social norms and government practices through humor and irony.
- Comedy — The writing employs comedic elements to entertain while addressing serious themes.
- Political Fiction — The narrative involves government officials and reflects on political themes.
- Social Commentary — The work comments on societal behaviors and customs, particularly related to drinking.
Tags
Ring Lardner · Wm. H. Clare · satire · humor · government · Chicago · customs · drinking culture · American literature · early 20th century · social commentary · political satire