A Democratic Ditty
The novel explores the theme of social class and its effects on personal relationships. The protagonist, a young woman from a lower-middle-class family, becomes infatuated with a wealthy suitor, which leads to a complex web of relationships and power struggles within her own family and social circle. Through this narrative, the novel critiques the social conventions that govern romantic relationships and the limitations imposed by class distinctions.
By Thomas Anstey Guthrie · First published 1897 · Genre: Satire, Political Commentary, Poetry · 987 words
First lines
The following example, although it gives a not wholly inadequate expression to what are understood to be the loftier aspirations of the most advanced and earnest section of the New Democracy, should not be attempted, as _yet_, before a West-End audience. In South or East London, the sentiment and philosophy of the song may possibly excite rapturous enthusiasm; in the West-End, though the tone is daily improving, they are not educated quite up to so exalted a level at present. Still, as an experiment in proselytism, it might be worth risking, even there. The title it bears is: --
GIVEN AWAY -- WITH A POUND OF TEA!
What this Textopian page supports
A Democratic Ditty is listed on Textopian as a poem by Thomas Anstey Guthrie, dated 1897 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Thomas Anstey Guthrie
- Date: 1897 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Political Commentary, Poetry, Humor, Social Critique
- Length: 987 words
- Structure: 1 section, 29 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Democratic Ditty by Thomas Anstey Guthrie
- 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 A Democratic Ditty?
- How does this poem by Thomas Anstey Guthrie fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Satire first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Brookss Club Cantos by Harry Graham
- Disinterested Passion by Thomas Anstey Guthrie
- The Amatory Episodic by Thomas Anstey Guthrie
- Short Ballad And Postscript On Consols by Hilaire Belloc
- On Approval by Hector Hugh Munro
- The Bachelors Club Cantos by Harry Graham
Genres
- Satire — The work employs humor and irony to critique social and political issues, characteristic of satirical literature.
- Political Commentary — The themes revolve around democracy, social class, and political structures, making it a commentary on contemporary political issues.
- Poetry — The format and style of the work resemble poetry, with verses and a rhythmic structure.
- Humor — The light-hearted tone and comedic elements are central to the work's appeal.
Tags
Satire · Humor · Politics · Democracy · Social Commentary · Irony · Wit · Poetry · Verse · Canadian Literature · 19th Century · Historical Fiction