Poetry · Chapter
The New Dennis explained
This chapter satirizes Dennis Kearney's political shift from opposing railroad monopolies to aligning with them, using the metaphor of common carriers making common cause.
What happens
This chapter satirizes Dennis Kearney's political shift from opposing railroad monopolies to aligning with them, using the metaphor of common carriers making common cause. It highlights the hypocrisy of Kearney and Crocker uniting as 'pigs together' despite their previous enmity.
Themes in this chapter
Hypocrisy and Corruption
Kearney's reversal from opposing to supporting railroad monopolies exemplifies political hypocrisy and corruption.
Political Satire
The poem mocks Kearney's transformation and the collusion between former adversaries, using biting satire.
Characters to notice
- Unknown
The narrator observes and satirizes the political transformation of Dennis Kearney.
Key passages
“Lo! Kearney, rising on his hinder legs, For higher rates of freight and passage begs.”
Behold, Kearney stands up to plead for increased freight and passenger rates.
This line satirizes Kearney's shift to advocating for higher railroad rates, contrary to his earlier stance.
“Crocker and Kearney, men of equal leather, Arcades ambo —they are pigs together.”
Crocker and Kearney, both of the same coarse material, are both pigs together.
The Latin phrase 'Arcades ambo' (both Arcadians) is used ironically to equate the two as equally corrupt.