# A Finger on the Lips explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by Ambrose Bierce.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### Mike de Young

Addressed as 'Mike' in the opening line.

## Key lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_se/chapters/a-finger-on-the-lips
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_se/chapters