Versicles on Sign-posts
written in 1788
Versicles on Sign-posts - context Summary
Written in 1788
Written as a set of short, epigrammatic sketches, the poem lampoons familiar social types by comparing them to the fixed figures on roadside sign-posts. Each quatrain pairs a visual simile with a brisk moral observation: a fierce but harmless 'lion', a dull ox, a smiling landlord, and a barber whose powdered head is merely show. The tone is wry and satirical, using compact imagery to expose vanity, stupidity, and social caricature rather than deep psychological portraiture. The pieces read like quick, humorous moral notices meant for public amusement.
Read Complete AnalysesHe looked Just as your Sign-post lions do, As fierce, and quite as harmless too. Patient Stupidity So, heavy, passive to the tempest's shocks, Dull on the Sign-post stands the stupid Ox. His face with smile eternal drest Just like the Landlord to his guest, High as they hang with creaking din To index out the Country Inn. A head pure, sinless quite of brain or soul, The very image of a Barber's Poll; Just shews a human face and wears a wig, And looks when well-friseur'd, amazing big.
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