A Nonsense Anthology   By: Carolyn Wells (1862-1942)

A Nonsense Anthology by Carolyn Wells is a delightful collection of absurd and whimsical writings that will tickle the fancy of any lover of literary nonsense. As the title suggests, this anthology brings together a variety of short stories, poems, and limericks that showcase the author's incredible talent for creating nonsensical worlds filled with peculiar characters and peculiar events.

From the very first page, readers are transported into a world where logic is abandoned, and imagination reigns supreme. Each piece in the anthology is a unique gem, offering a different blend of wordplay, puns, and unexpected twists that leave readers both bewildered and amused. Wells proves her mastery of linguistic acrobatics by inventing nonsensical words and weaving them into witty rhymes and verses that dance and delight on the page.

What sets this anthology apart is the sheer diversity of genres and styles employed by Wells. From humorous poems and absurd short stories to nonsensical riddles and peculiar limericks, each piece presents a fresh and entertaining take on the art of nonsense. Readers will find themselves chuckling at the whimsical characters and absurd situations, marveling at the author's ability to craft such elaborate worlds out of thin air.

Furthermore, Wells showcases her versatility by successfully capturing the essence of different forms of nonsense. Some stories are reminiscent of Lewis Carroll's whimsical wordplay, while others evoke the madcap humor of Edward Lear. The author's ability to seamlessly move between various styles of nonsense demonstrates her deep understanding and appreciation of the genre.

An additional highlight of this anthology is Wells' use of clever illustrations to enhance the overall reading experience. Vibrant and detailed, the illustrations perfectly complement the whimsical nature of the text, bringing the nonsense to life and leaving readers with a lasting visual impression.

If there is any criticism to be raised, it would be that some pieces may appear a bit dated or reliant on cultural references that may be unfamiliar to contemporary readers. However, this does not detract from the overall enjoyment of the anthology, as the literary craftsmanship and the charm of the nonsensical elements remain intact.

In conclusion, A Nonsense Anthology is a delightful and charming collection of nonsense literature that showcases Carolyn Wells' incredible talent and deep understanding of the genre. With its whimsical stories, witty wordplay, and clever illustrations, this anthology is sure to captivate readers of all ages who appreciate the joy and wonder that can be found within the nonsensical realm.

First Page:

INTRODUCTION JABBERWOCKY Lewis Carroll MORS IABROCHII Anonymous THE NYUM NYUM Anonymous UFFIA Harriet R. White SPIRK TROLL DERISIVE James Whitcomb Riley THE WHANGO TREE 1840 SING FOR THE GARISH EYE W.S. Gilbert THE CRUISE OF THE "P.C." Anonymous TO MARIE Anonymous LUNAR STANZAS Henry Coggswell Knight NONSENSE Anonymous, 1617 SONNET FOUND IN A DESERTED MAD HOUSE Anonymous THE OCEAN WANDERER Anonymous SHE'S ALL MY FANCY PAINTED HIM Lewis Carroll MY RECOLLECTEST THOUGHTS Charles E. Carryl FATHER WILLIAM Anonymous IN THE GLOAMING James C. Bayles BALLAD OF BEDLAM Punch 'TIS SWEET TO ROAM Anonymous HYMN TO THE SUNRISE Anonymous THE MOON IS UP Anonymous 'T IS MIDNIGHT Anonymous UPRISING SEE THE FITFUL LARK Anonymous LIKE TO THE THUNDERING TONE Bishop Corbet MY DREAM Anonymous MY HOME Anonymous IN IMMEMORIAM Cuthbert Bede THE HIGHER PANTHEISM IN A NUTSHELL A... Continue reading book >>