by Coleridge · Cluster: Satire of Society · Epigram · Satire
Abstract
A political-satirical epigram extending the previous Baptist conceit, wishing the United Irishmen (‘locusts’) eaten up to save laws and liberties.
Connections
Motifs: Serpent Snake Themes & Concepts: Satire of Society Forms & Genres: Epigram, Satire Historical References: Irish Question, Bible
Testo integrale / Full text
I hold of all our viperous race
The greedy creeping things in place
Most vile, most venomous; and then
The United Irishmen!
To come on earth should John determine,
Imprimis, we’ll excuse his sermon.
Without a word the good old Dervis
Might work incalculable service,
At once from tyranny and riot
Save laws, lives, liberties and moneys,
If sticking to his ancient diet
He’d but eat up our locusts and wild honeys!
First published in An. Anth., 1800. First collected P. and D. W.,
1877, ii. 162.
[After 4] Now by miraculous deeds to stir them MS.