Poetry · Chapter
An Election Expense explained
The narrator critiques Stanford's political financing, specifically a $10,000 payment to Tom Fitch for stump speaking, and suggests that such investments in politics are corrupt and ultimately unwise.
What happens
The narrator critiques Stanford's political financing, specifically a $10,000 payment to Tom Fitch for stump speaking, and suggests that such investments in politics are corrupt and ultimately unwise.
Themes in this chapter
Hypocrisy and Corruption
The poem exposes the corrupt relationship between money and politics, with Stanford using funds to influence elections and senators being made by 'Mr. Stow and Mr. Mammon.'
Political Satire
The narrator satirizes Stanford's political ambitions and the transactional nature of governance, mocking the idea that votes or speeches can be bought.
Characters to notice
- Leland Stanford
Addressed directly as the recipient of the $10,000 payment to Tom Fitch; criticized for political manipulation and association with Mammon.
- Tom Carew
Referenced as Tom Fitch, the recipient of the $10,000 to 'stump the State'; his silver tongue is described as unreliable and prone to mutiny.
- Creed Haymond
Mentioned as someone who might approach Stanford for a loan, highlighting the corrupt political dealings.
Key passages
“Stanford, when recently you gave Tom Fitch Ten thousand dollars, gold, to 'stump the State'”
Stanford, you recently gave Tom Fitch $10,000 in gold to campaign across the state.
Highlights the direct financial transaction for political support.
“Tom's tongue make Senators? No, no, that's gammon; They're made by Mr. Stow and Mr. Mammon.”
Tom's speeches don't create senators; they are made by money and influence.
Emphasizes the theme that political power is bought, not earned through oratory.