# Conrad H. Poppenhusen explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by Ring Lardner.

## What happens

A brief poetic tribute to Conrad H. Poppenhusen, a Chicago lawyer known for his eloquent courtroom language and his ability to speak plainly and effectively at Old Ellum.

## Themes in this chapter

### Work and Profession

Highlights the professional skill and versatility of a lawyer who adapts his language to different settings.

## Character check-ins

### Conrad H. Poppenhusen

A Chicago lawyer praised for his Ciceronian courtroom oratory and his straightforward communication at Old Ellum.

## Key lines

> They say he spills language in court Of a most Ciceronian sort, But out at Old Ellum, He’s able to tell ’em The statutes in words that are short.

He is reputed to use eloquent, classical language in court, yet at Old Ellum he can explain the law in simple, direct terms.

_Contrasts the lawyer's formal courtroom rhetoric with his plain-spoken communication elsewhere._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/conrad-h-poppenhusen
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_19_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters