Fiscal Ballads   By: Harry Graham (1874-1936)

Fiscal Ballads by Harry Graham unveils itself as a delightful collection of witty and satirical poems that provide a lighthearted take on financial matters. Featuring a diverse range of ballads, the book explores various scenarios involving money, taxes, investments, and the economy, all presented through the lens of Graham's clever verses.

One of the standout qualities of Graham's work is his masterful command over language. His rhyming scheme effortlessly flows throughout each poem, skillfully injecting humor and irony into the topics at hand. Moreover, his ability to tackle complex financial concepts with such simplicity and humor is truly commendable. It is this unique blend of wit and insight that makes Fiscal Ballads an engaging and entertaining read.

Each ballad in this anthology takes on a different aspect of fiscal matters, allowing readers to explore a wide range of financial scenarios in a light and humorous manner. From tales of tax evasion to cases of economic mismanagement, Graham presents these situations through amusing characters and entertaining narratives. His clever wordplay and sharp observations make even the most mundane financial matters intriguing and amusing.

Beyond the surface level of humor, Fiscal Ballads also offers a subtle critique of the society's relationship with money. Graham's poems often highlight the greed, folly, and irrational behavior that can arise when people are motivated primarily by financial gain. However, he does so without being preachy or overly didactic, maintaining the balance between humor and commentary.

The illustrations accompanying each ballad further enhance the reading experience. Artist W. Heath Robinson's whimsical and detailed drawings perfectly complement the playful tone of the poems. The visuals add depth to the characters and settings, transforming the words into vivid scenes that immerse readers further into Graham's imaginative world.

Although some readers might find themselves initially daunted by the subject matter of finance, Fiscal Ballads proves to be an accessible and enjoyable read for both finance enthusiasts and novices alike. By blending humor, satire, and social commentary, Harry Graham has crafted an entertaining anthology that transcends its financial themes.

In conclusion, Fiscal Ballads is a delightful and witty collection of poems that brings a fresh and humorous perspective on economic matters. With his clever wordplay and astute observations, Graham invites readers to see money-related topics in a new light. It is a testament to his talent and creativity that he can tackle such topics with such grace and entertainment. Filled with memorable characters and accompanied by delightful illustrations, this book is an excellent choice for those seeking a unique literary escape while also gaining a deeper understanding of financial matters.

First Page:

I'm only a common workin' man, With a eye to my vittles an' beer, But afore I puts my money on Joe, There's a thing or two as I'd like to know, Which 'e 'asn't a made quite clear... Continue reading book >>