Every year on July 10, poetry enthusiasts and lovers of wit come together to celebrate Clerihew Day. But what exactly is a clerihew, and why does it deserve its very own day? Let’s dive into the quirky world of this playful poetic form and discover why it’s celebrated, its fascinating history, and how you can join the fun!
What is a Clerihew?
A clerihew is a whimsical, four-line biographical poem invented by British writer Edmund Clerihew Bentley in the early 20th century. These poems follow a simple structure: the first line is the subject’s name, and the remaining three lines deliver witty or humorous commentary. There’s no strict meter, and rhymes are often delightfully unexpected, making clerihews a lighthearted and accessible form of poetry for all ages.
The History of Clerihew Day
Clerihew Day is celebrated on July 10 to honor the birthday of Edmund Clerihew Bentley, born on this day in 1875. Bentley published his first clerihew at just 16 years old in his school magazine, sparking a lifelong love for this unique art form. His collection, “Biography for Beginners”, was published in 1905 and remains a beloved classic. Over time, clerihews have gained a cult following among poets and humorists, leading to the establishment of this special day dedicated to Bentley’s whimsical legacy.
Why is Clerihew Day Significant?
Clerihew Day is more than just a celebration of poetry—it’s a reminder to embrace creativity, humor, and the joy of wordplay. In a world often consumed by seriousness, clerihews offer a delightful escape. They’re an invitation to look at the world through a playful lens, finding inspiration in the quirks and oddities of people and life itself. Plus, their simplicity means anyone can try their hand at writing one!
How to Celebrate Clerihew Day
Celebrating Clerihew Day is as fun as the poems themselves! Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Write Your Own Clerihew: Pick a famous figure, a friend, or even yourself as the subject and craft a clever four-line poem.
- Host a Clerihew Contest: Gather friends or family and see who can create the wittiest clerihew.
- Share on Social Media: Post your clerihews online with the hashtag #ClerihewDay to join the global celebration.
- Read Bentley’s Work: Dive into “Biography for Beginners” or explore modern clerihew collections for inspiration.
Fun Facts About Clerihews
- The first clerihew ever written was about Sir Humphry Davy:
“Sir Humphry Davy / Abominated gravy. / He lived in the odium / Of having discovered sodium.” - Edmund Clerihew Bentley also wrote detective novels and is considered one of the pioneers of the genre.
- Clerihews often break traditional poetry rules, making them a favorite among nonconformists and creativity seekers.
Join the Celebration!
Whether you’re a seasoned poet or a curious beginner, Clerihew Day is the perfect opportunity to unleash your inner wordsmith. Grab a pen, let your imagination run wild, and create your own clerihew masterpiece. Don’t forget to share your creations and spread the joy of this whimsical art form!
Happy Clerihew Day!
