# Herman Friestedt explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by Ring Lardner.

## What happens

A brief poetic tribute to Herman Friestedt, a Chicago contractor praised for building cantonments for soldiers, though he is modest until asked about his recent moose hunting experience.

## Themes in this chapter

### Work and Profession

Herman Friestedt is recognized for his professional work as a contractor building military cantonments.

### Humor and Satire

The poem humorously contrasts Friestedt's modesty about his work with his eagerness to recount a hunting story.

## Character check-ins

### Unknown Narrator

The narrator presents a lighthearted verse about Herman Friestedt.

## Key lines

> They praise the cantonments he built In the towns where our soldiers were drilt, But he’s modestasell Till you ask him to tell About the last moose that he kilt.

People commend the military barracks he constructed in training towns, but he remains humble until prompted to recount his latest moose hunt.

_Highlights the contrast between his professional humility and his pride in hunting._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/herman-friestedt
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_19_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters