# Harry J. Ridings explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by Ring Lardner.

## What happens

A brief poetic tribute to Harry J. Ridings, Western Manager of the George M. Cohan Interests in Chicago, humorously suggesting that George Cohan would be so distressed by Ridings' retirement that he would die and write songs in heaven.

## Themes in this chapter

### Humor and Satire

The chapter uses whimsical, exaggerated verse to imagine George Cohan's reaction to Ridings' retirement, blending humor with professional admiration.

### Work and Profession

Highlights the professional role of Harry J. Ridings as Western Manager and the impact of his potential retirement on the theatrical business.

## Character check-ins

### George Cohan

Mentioned as the theatrical figure who would be devastated by Harry J. Ridings' retirement.

## Key lines

> George Cohan would simply expire And write songs for the heavenly choir If he received tidings That Harry J. Ridings Had made up his mind to retire.

George Cohan would be so shocked by the news of Harry J. Ridings' retirement that he would die and start composing music in heaven.

_A humorous hyperbole expressing the high regard for Ridings' role in Cohan's organization._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/harry-j-ridings
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_19_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters