Poetry · Chapter
A Finger on the Lips explained
The chapter presents a satirical Irish voice celebrating the prospect of Home Rule, only to caution against cheering too loudly for fear that Americans might demand the same.
What happens
The chapter presents a satirical Irish voice celebrating the prospect of Home Rule, only to caution against cheering too loudly for fear that Americans might demand the same.
Themes in this chapter
Political Satire
The poem satirizes Irish nationalist hopes and the fear of inspiring similar demands in America.
Characters to notice
- Mike de Young
Addressed as 'Mike' in the opening line.
Key passages
“O Mike, have ye heard the good news? They’re gwan to have Home Rule at last; An’ a Parlyment fine they will chuse, An’ wurruk’s a thing o’ the past.”
Oh Mike, have you heard the wonderful news? They're finally going to get Home Rule, and they'll elect a fine parliament, making work a thing of the past.
The speaker excitedly announces the prospect of Irish Home Rule, imagining a future of leisure and prosperity.
“Whisht! though—I say— Bedad, it's no place to cheer! For Home Rule we mustn't hurroo— They'll be wantin' it here if we do.”
Hush! I say—by God, this is no place to celebrate! We must not shout for Home Rule, or they'll start demanding it here in America.
The speaker abruptly warns against public celebration, fearing that American audiences might adopt the same demand for self-governance.