The Rubaiyat of Omar Cayenne By: Gelett Burgess (1866-1951)
The Rubaiyat of Omar Cayenne by Gelett Burgess is a remarkable piece of poetic literature that effortlessly combines wit, humor, and profound philosophy. Though written as a parody of Edward FitzGerald's translation of The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam, Burgess's version stands on its own as a clever and delightful collection of quatrains. One of the most striking aspects of this book is Burgess's brilliant use of language. His mastery of rhyme and meter is evident in every line, making the verses flow with an enchanting rhythm. Each quatrain offers a playful and lighthearted tone, often poking fun at conventional wisdom and social norms. Through his clever wordplay and witty observations, Burgess invites readers to question established beliefs and embrace a more unconventional, whimsical worldview. What truly sets The Rubaiyat of Omar Cayenne apart is its ability to combine humor with profound existential reflections. While some quatrains might lead readers into fits of laughter, others delve into more profound topics, such as the meaning of life, the nature of existence, and the fleeting nature of time. In this way, Burgess manages to create a unique balance between light-hearted entertainment and thought-provoking contemplation. Furthermore, the book's illustrations, also created by Burgess himself, add an extra layer of charm and visual appeal to the quatrains. The whimsical drawings perfectly complement the verses, providing an immersive reading experience that engages both the mind and the eye. However, readers who expect a faithful rendition of Khayyam's original work may find themselves initially taken aback by the satirical tone and departure from the traditional themes. Yet, it is precisely this departure that makes Burgess's Rubaiyat such a delightful and refreshing read. Rather than attempting to faithfully replicate the original, Burgess's parody breathes new life into the quatrains, making them accessible and enjoyable to a wider audience. In conclusion, The Rubaiyat of Omar Cayenne is a delightful and entertaining read that effortlessly blends humor, wit, and profound insights. Gelett Burgess's poetic skills shine through in every line, leaving readers with a smile on their faces and thoughts to ponder. Whether you are familiar with FitzGerald's translation or not, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking a delightful, thought-provoking journey through the quatrains of Omar Cayenne. First Page: THE RUBAIYAT OF OMAR CAYENNE BY GELETT BURGESS NEW YORK FREDERICK A STOKES COMPANY PUBLISHERS Copyright, 1904, BY GELETT BURGESS Published December, 1904 THE RUBAIYAT OF OMAR CAYENNE I Wake! For the Hack can scatter into flight Shakespere and Dante in a single Night! The Penny a liner is Abroad, and strikes Our Modern Literature with blithering Blight. II Before Historical Romances died, Methought a Voice from Art's Olympus cried, "When all Dumas and Scott is still for Sale, Why nod o'er drowsy Tales, by Tyros tried?" III A cock sure Crew with Names ne'er heard before Greedily shouted "Open then the Door! You know how little Stuff is going to live, But where it came from there is plenty More." IV Now the New Year reviving old Desires, The Artist poor to Calendars aspires, But of the Stuff the Publisher puts out Most in the Paper Basket soon suspires. V Harum indeed is gone, and Lady Rose, And Janice Meredith, where no one knows; But still the Author gushes overtime, And many a Poet babbles on in Prose. VI Aldrich's lips are lock'd; but people buy High piping Authoresses, boomed sky high. "How Fine!" the Publisher cries to the Mob, That monumental Cheek to justify. VII Come, fill the Purse, to Publishers, this Spring, Your Manuscripts of paltry Passion bring: The New York Times has oft a little Way Of praising let The Times your praises sing... Continue reading book >>

The Rubaiyat of Omar Cayenne By: Gelett Burgess (1866-1951)

The Rubaiyat of Omar Cayenne by Gelett Burgess is a remarkable piece of poetic literature that effortlessly combines wit, humor, and profound philosophy. Though written as a parody of Edward FitzGerald's translation of The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam, Burgess's version stands on its own as a clever and delightful collection of quatrains.

One of the most striking aspects of this book is Burgess's brilliant use of language. His mastery of rhyme and meter is evident in every line, making the verses flow with an enchanting rhythm. Each quatrain offers a playful and lighthearted tone, often poking fun at conventional wisdom and social norms. Through his clever wordplay and witty observations, Burgess invites readers to question established beliefs and embrace a more unconventional, whimsical worldview.

What truly sets The Rubaiyat of Omar Cayenne apart is its ability to combine humor with profound existential reflections. While some quatrains might lead readers into fits of laughter, others delve into more profound topics, such as the meaning of life, the nature of existence, and the fleeting nature of time. In this way, Burgess manages to create a unique balance between light-hearted entertainment and thought-provoking contemplation.

Furthermore, the book's illustrations, also created by Burgess himself, add an extra layer of charm and visual appeal to the quatrains. The whimsical drawings perfectly complement the verses, providing an immersive reading experience that engages both the mind and the eye.

However, readers who expect a faithful rendition of Khayyam's original work may find themselves initially taken aback by the satirical tone and departure from the traditional themes. Yet, it is precisely this departure that makes Burgess's Rubaiyat such a delightful and refreshing read. Rather than attempting to faithfully replicate the original, Burgess's parody breathes new life into the quatrains, making them accessible and enjoyable to a wider audience.

In conclusion, The Rubaiyat of Omar Cayenne is a delightful and entertaining read that effortlessly blends humor, wit, and profound insights. Gelett Burgess's poetic skills shine through in every line, leaving readers with a smile on their faces and thoughts to ponder. Whether you are familiar with FitzGerald's translation or not, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking a delightful, thought-provoking journey through the quatrains of Omar Cayenne.

First Page:

THE RUBAIYAT OF OMAR CAYENNE

GELETT BURGESS

NEW YORK FREDERICK A STOKES COMPANY PUBLISHERS

Published December, 1904

THE RUBAIYAT OF OMAR CAYENNE

Wake! For the Hack can scatter into flight Shakespere and Dante in a single Night! The Penny a liner is Abroad, and strikes Our Modern Literature with blithering Blight.

Before Historical Romances died, Methought a Voice from Art's Olympus cried, "When all Dumas and Scott is still for Sale, Why nod o'er drowsy Tales, by Tyros tried?"

III

A cock sure Crew with Names ne'er heard before Greedily shouted "Open then the Door! You know how little Stuff is going to live, But where it came from there is plenty More."

Now the New Year reviving old Desires, The Artist poor to Calendars aspires, But of the Stuff the Publisher puts out Most in the Paper Basket soon suspires.

Harum indeed is gone, and Lady Rose, And Janice Meredith, where no one knows; But still the Author gushes overtime, And many a Poet babbles on in Prose.

Aldrich's lips are lock'd; but people buy High piping Authoresses, boomed sky high. "How Fine!" the Publisher cries to the Mob, That monumental Cheek to justify.

VII

Come, fill the Purse, to Publishers, this Spring, Your Manuscripts of paltry Passion bring: The New York Times has oft a little Way Of praising let The Times your praises sing... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
History
Humor
Literature

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Wikipedia – Gelett Burgess
Wikipedia – The Rubaiyat of Omar Cayenne

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