Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"A Charm; For Our New Fireplace to Stop Its Smoking" is a poem written by Christopher Darlington Morley, an American journalist, novelist, and poet who lived from 1890 to 1957. Morley was known for his witty and humorous writing style and his contributions to American literature.

Context:

The poem reflects the everyday experiences of homeowners dealing with a new fireplace that is producing excessive smoke. The poem captures the frustrations and humor that can arise in such situations, as well as the desire for a quick and easy solution.

Content:

The poem is a humorous charm or incantation that is designed to stop a new fireplace from smoking. The charm involves a series of humorous and absurd instructions, such as burning a hairpin and a toothpick in the fireplace, and burying a potato outside the house. The poem is meant to be light-hearted and whimsical, and to capture the frustrations and humor of homeowners dealing with a new fireplace.

Form:

The poem is written in free verse, with no regular rhyme or meter. The poem's form contributes to its light-hearted and whimsical tone.

Poetic Elements:

The poem makes use of a range of poetic techniques and devices, including repetition, alliteration, and personification. For example, the repetition of the phrase "breathe no smoke" creates a sense of urgency and importance, while the alliteration in phrases such as "potato, parsley, and pepper" adds to the poem's whimsical tone. The poem also personifies the fireplace, giving it human-like qualities and emotions.

Summary:

Overall, "A Charm; For Our New Fireplace to Stop Its Smoking" is a humorous and light-hearted poem that captures the frustrations and humor of homeowners dealing with a new fireplace. Morley's use of poetic techniques and devices creates a sense of whimsy and absurdity that is characteristic of his writing style. While the poem may not be as widely read or appreciated today, it remains a valuable contribution to the canon of American literature and provides insight into the humor and everyday experiences of the early 20th century homeowner.

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