Pinned to Mrs Riddell's Carriage

Pinned to Mrs Riddell's Carriage - meaning Summary

Speed That Breaks Down

This brief poem uses a witty, admonitory voice to compare a carriage's rattling speed to a mistress's talkative tongue. The speaker warns that rapid motion or flashy show may outpace others but will fail if the underlying substance is weak. The image of a tiny fly bearing a heavy load makes the point: showy performance without solidity leads to breakdown. The tone is satirical and moralizing, advising steadiness and soundness over reckless haste and hollow appearance.