Book: Excuse It, Please

Introduction
"Excuse It, Please" is a collection of funny verses and whimsical illustrations by Oliver Herford, an American author, artist, and humorist who was popular in the early 20th century. Originally published in 1930, the book contains more than fifty poems and drawings that vary from witty to absurd, offering readers a glance into Herford's unique perspective on life and the world around him. Understood for his sharp wit and eager observations, Herford's work in "Excuse It, Please" is identified by its light-heartedness and ability to find humor in daily scenarios.

Styles and Topics
Although the whimsical poems in "Excuse It, Please" cover a broad range of subjects, numerous recurring styles can be recognized. Among the most striking themes throughout the book is the funny portrayal of animals and their interactions with people. Herford regularly anthropomorphizes animals, associating human behaviors, feelings, and ideas to them, which he then utilizes as a means to spoof society and humanity. For instance, in the poem "The Ostrich", Herford describes the bird's penchant for burying its head in the sand as a smart way to avoid unpleasant truths.

Another recurring style in the book is the expedition of love and relationships. From the whimsical, one-sided love affair of a jellyfish in "The Jelly-Fish" to the desperate efforts of a leaf to hold on to a tree in "Autumn and the Leaf", Herford's funny verse frequently touches on the absurdity of love and the lengths to which individuals go to maintain it. The poet likewise satirizes the idea of romantic love itself, as demonstrated by the poem "Solomon's Song", which imagines the biblical King Solomon venting his disappointments at his numerous better halves.

Herford's wordplay is inseparable from his illustrations, which frequently serve to boost the humor of his written verses. His drawings are defined by a simple, childlike quality and evince a cheeky wit. The illustrations not only contribute to the humor of the poems however also supply a visual narrative that matches and enhances the text.

Style and Humor
"Excuse It, Please" is written mostly in light verse, a type of poetry that is distinguished by its natural, informal treatment of its topics and its dependence on humor and wit. Although light verse can be serious in material or intent, it is normally defined by brevity, wit, and a focus on amusing the reader.

The humor present in Herford's work is differed, ranging from mild wit and wordplay to straight-out absurdity. He often uses puns, alliteration, and creative rhymes to make his points and elicit laughter from the reader. Furthermore, a lot of his poems count on a twist or an unexpected turn of events to develop a sense of surprise and amusement.

Effect and Legacy
While "Excuse It, Please" might not be extensively known today, it stays a wonderful example of early 20th-century American humor and a testimony to Oliver Herford's imaginative talents as both an illustrator and author. The charm of Herford's lighthearted verse and whimsical drawings continues to appeal to readers who appreciate well-crafted wit and an absurd take on the everyday.

In addition to his contributions to the world of humor and literature, Herford is remembered for his smart aphorisms, many of which have actually become a part of pop culture. Such examples consist of "A male is known by the company his mind keeps" and "Many are called however couple of get up", both of which demonstrate the cleverness and wit for which the author is celebrated.

In conclusion, "Excuse It, Please" is a delightful collection of funny poems and drawings that showcases Oliver Herford's distinct wit and talent for discovering the absurd in the everyday. Filled with memorable lines, clever wordplay, and charming illustrations, the book remains a testament to Herford's enduring appeal as a master of light verse and humor.