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Poetry · Chapter

John P. Harding explained

A brief poetic tribute to John P.

What happens

A brief poetic tribute to John P. Harding, a Chicago hotel operator who manages to balance his busy schedule with an afternoon tee time at Glen View.

Themes in this chapter

  • Work and Profession

    The chapter highlights the demanding life of a hotel operator, yet shows how one can still find leisure.

Characters to notice

  • John P. Harding

    Chicago hotel operator who makes time for golf despite his busy schedule.

Key passages

  • John P. Harding Hotel Operator, Chicago Hotel men have plenty to do And some of them never get through But Johnny, I’ll state, Is seldom too late For his afternoon tee at Glen View.

    John P. Harding, a Chicago hotel operator, is unlike other hotel men who are always busy; he always makes time for his afternoon golf game at Glen View.

    The poem contrasts the typical busy hotel operator with Harding's ability to prioritize leisure.