# S. E. Moist explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by Ring Lardner.

## What happens

A playful limerick introduces S. E. Moist of the Union Piano Co. in Chicago, punning on his name and the piano's musical function.

## Themes in this chapter

### Humor and Satire

The chapter uses a limerick and wordplay on the name 'Moist' to create a humorous, lighthearted tone.

### Work and Profession

S. E. Moist is identified as part of the Union Piano Co., highlighting his professional identity.

## Key lines

> When you hear this cognomen at foist, You say, “I am dry and he’s Moist.”

Upon first hearing the name, one might contrast being dry with being moist.

_The pun plays on the literal meaning of 'moist' versus 'dry' as a humorous reaction to the name._

> But his keys, let me tell yer, Won’t open no cellar, Though they do into melody boist.

His piano keys won't unlock a cellar, but they do produce lively music.

_Continues the pun, contrasting a literal key with a musical key, emphasizing the piano's purpose._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/s-e-moist
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_19_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters