The Chief Defect of Henry King
Was chewing little bits of String.
At last he swallowed some which tied
Itself in ugly Knots inside.
Physicians of the Utmost Fame
Were called at once; but when they came
They answered, as they took their Fees,
"There is no Cure for this Disease.
"Henry will very soon be dead.''
His Parents stood about his Bed
Lamenting his Untimely Death,
When Henry, with his Latest Breath,
Cried, "Oh, my Friends, be warned by me,
That Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, and Tea
Are all the Human Frame requires...''
With that, the Wretched Child expires.
I learned this as a child and have never forgotten it. Strange the things we remember
An excellent poem full of mockery and fun, penned in lighter vein. Thanks for sharing it here.
Had to learn this poem, as a Brownie for my entertainers badge in 1969.
I will be 90 Oct 2020.i remember the first lines from Chichester High School (Sussex) in 1941!
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
A great poem full of mockery. There is much truth in this fantasy.