Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, LINES ON A MYSTERIOUS OCCURRENCE, by ALFRED DENNIS GODLEY


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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

LINES ON A MYSTERIOUS OCCURRENCE, by                     Poet's Biography
First Line: I wish I knew geography - for that would tell me why
Last Line: From new south wales to paddington the shortest way's the high.
Alternate Author Name(s): Godley, A. D.
Subject(s): Oxford University


I WISH I knew geography -- for that would tell me why
'Twixt New South Wales and Paddington you needs must pass the High!
Of course I know the fact is so: 'tis singular, but then
Veracity is still the mark of literary men.

All in the High a Yankee man I happened for to find:
He'd come from the Antipodes, and left his purse behind:
And here by his embarrassments compelled he was to stay
('Twixt New South Wales and London town 'tis all upon the way).

His simple tale affected me: 'twas more than I could bear:
I brought him to my humble cot and entertained him there.
And 'Books!' he cried, while gazing on my well-assorted shelf,
'I've written some immortal works -- anonymous -- myself!

'Full well I know the authors of those venerable tomes --
Yes, there's Nathaniel Hawthorne, and there is Wendell Holmes!
My literary relatives I number by the score:
Mark Twain's my cousin twice removed, by far Missouri's shore.'

He spoke of many famous men, and all by Christian names --
Yes, Howells he called William D., and Russell Lowell, James:
His kinsmen and acquaintances were all in Culture's van;
I do not think I ever met a more related man.

'But what's the use of all that crowd,' the Transatlantic said,
'When I am bound to catch the cars, and ain't got nary red?
Stranger, I guess with Caius C. Maecenas you'll be known
If you will just oblige me with a temporary loan.'

I can't resist celebrity -- I lent him shillings ten,
That impecunious relative of literary men:
And when he comes to pay it back, no doubt he'll tell me why
From New South Wales to Paddington the shortest way's the High.





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