# The Roc; The Shamrock explained — How to Tell the Birds from the Flowers and Other Woodcuts

> Chapter companion for How to Tell the Birds from the Flowers and Other Woodcuts by Robert Williams Wood.

## What happens

The author expresses skepticism about the mythical Roc from Sinbad's tales, considering it a sham, and notes that the shamrock is associated with St. Patrick's Day.

## Themes in this chapter

### Wordplay and Homophones

The chapter plays on the homophonic similarity between 'Roc' and 'shamrock', linking a mythical bird to a plant.

### Cultural and Literary Reference

References Sinbad's Roc from Arabian Nights and the shamrock from St. Patrick's Day, blending literary and cultural symbols.

## Key lines

> Although I never took much stock, In Sinbad’s yarn about the Roc, And really must confess I am Inclined to think the Roc a sham

I never believed Sinbad's story about the Roc, and I admit I think the Roc is a fake.

_Expresses doubt about the mythical bird's existence._

> Take notice that, the Sham‑rock may Be seen upon St. Patrick’s day.

Note that the shamrock can be seen on St. Patrick's Day.

_Contrasts the mythical Roc with the real shamrock associated with a holiday._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/how_to_tell_the_birds_from_the_flowers_and_other_se/chapters/the-roc-the-shamrock
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/how_to_tell_the_birds_from_the_flowers_and_other_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/how_to_tell_the_birds_from_the_flowers_and_other_se/chapters