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Poetry · Chapter
John E. Owens explained
A brief, rhythmic tribute to John E.
What happens
A brief, rhythmic tribute to John E. Owens, a Chicago lawyer, recounting his personal account of an event, with the narrator expressing belief in his story while playfully wishing him ill if it proves false.
Characters to notice
- John E. Owens
A Chicago lawyer who personally told the narrator a story, which the narrator believes but jokingly hopes will choke him if untrue.
- Unknown Narrator
The narrator who recounts John E. Owens's story and expresses belief in it.
Key passages
“John E. Owens Lawyer, Chicago He caught it hissilf, Johnny Owens; He tould me in could sober towens. I b’lave him, I do, But if it ain’t thrue, Sure I hope that he’ll choke on the bowens.”
John E. Owens, a lawyer from Chicago, caught it himself. Johnny Owens told me in cold, sober tones. I believe him, I do, but if it isn't true, I hope he chokes on the bones.
The narrator affirms belief in John E. Owens's story while adding a humorous curse if it's false.