An Enigma

by Edgar Allan Poe — a poem card from Justes Mots

A playful riddle poem that mocks shallow poetry while claiming the poem itself contains hidden names that grant it immortality and substance, becoming an enigma about the power of concealed identity. Poe's self-referential wit celebrating the durability of work enriched by personal meaning. Suited for readers who appreciate formal ingenuity and literary humor.

"Seldom we find," says Solomon Don Dunce,
"Half an idea in the profoundest sonnet.
Through all the flimsy things we see at once
As easily as through a Naples bonnet,
Trash of all trash! how can a lady don it?
Yet heavier far than your Petrarchan stuff,
Owl-downy nonsense that the faintest puff
Twirls into trunk-paper the while you con it."…

Themes: birthday · friendship · encouragement