# John B. De Voney explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by Ring Lardner.

## What happens

A brief, whimsical portrait of John B. De Voney, a Chicago real estate agent whose storytelling prowess and knowledge of lots and plots lead clients to sign agreements before he finishes his tales.

## Themes in this chapter

### Work and Profession

The chapter humorously depicts the real estate profession and the art of persuasion through storytelling.

### Humor and Satire

The playful rhyme and exaggerated description of De Voney's sales technique satirize the real estate business.

## Character check-ins

### John B. De Voney

A Chicago real estate agent known for his head full of stories and plots, who persuades clients to sign quickly.

## Key lines

> John B. De Voney Real Estate, Chicago De Voney appears to know Lots; His head’s full of Stories and Plots. He tells you three Stories (And basement)⁠—Before he’s Half through, you will sign on the dots.

John B. De Voney, a Chicago real estate agent, seems to know many properties and is full of tales and schemes. He tells you three stories, including one about a basement, and before he is even halfway done, you will have signed the contract.

_Summarizes the chapter's content and the character's persuasive storytelling._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/john-b-de-voney
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_19_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters