CHAPTER VII
Literary Conundrums
What American poet may be considered equal to three-fifths of the poets ancient and modern? Poe.
The names of which two Greek poems will you mention on alluding to their author's peculiar manner and indisposition? Homer's Odd-I-see and Ill-I-add.
Why is an unskillful physician like Peleus' son, Achilles? Because both have "sent many souls to Hades ere their time."
What injury did the Lavinia of Thomson's "Seasons" do to young Palemon? She pulled his ears and trod on his corns.
If a tough beefsteak could speak, what English poet would it mention? Chaw-sir (Chaucer).
Was it John Byrom who, in comparing two celebrated musicians, said one was Tweedledum, the other only Tweedledee? If so, state which of these two names was the more difficult to write. Tweedledum, because he wrote the other with more e's (ease).
Why was it a mistake to imagine that Robinson Crusoe's island was uninhabited? Because the very first thing he saw upon landing was a great swell a pitchin' into a little "cove" on the shore.
What prescription is the best for a poet? A composing draught.
Why is an author the most wonderful man in the world? Because his tale (tail) comes out of his head.