The Lure of the Limerick

The Lure of the Limerick: An Uninhibited History
by William S. Baring-Gould [820.08 Bar]

Baring-Gould makes a point, early in this book, that the Limerick is a literary form that appeals mainly to men, and that most anyone who is a fan of this poetical form has probably memorized at least one Limerick from their past. That is definitely the case with me -- I was first introduced to this art form in junior high school, and still remember one particular Limerick, from (of all places) an Isaac Asimov poetry collection! The Limerick is a very controversial form of poetry -- not only for the strictness of its format, but also for the frequently scatological and/or sexual nature of limericks' subject matter. Baring-Gould's volume, originally published decades ago, makes for fascinating reading. Accompanied by classical, titilating illustrations, some may find the content of this objectionable, but those wishing to take a good look at the origins and development of limericks over the course of English literature, this is a great read! -- recommended by Scott C. - Bennett Martin Public Library

There was a young lad name of Bob
Who carried his watch on a fob
I haven't got time
To make this all rhyme
Or I'll never get back to my job! - sc 5/2011


[ Wikipedia page on William S. Baring-Gould ] | [ Wikipedia page on Limericks ]

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