In the quirky corners of literary history, where wit and wordplay dance hand in hand, the Clerihew stands out as a delightful oddity. Invented by Edmund Clerihew Bentley in 1930, this four-line poetic form has carved its niche by poking fun at the illustrious and the famous with a light-hearted jab. Unlike the solemn verses that often populate the halls of poetry, Clerihews bring a spark of humor and a dash of irreverence, making them a favorite among those who appreciate the lighter side of literature. With National Clerihew Day celebrated on July 10, enthusiasts of this amusing verse have the perfect excuse to pen down their cheeky quatrains. Whether you're a seasoned poet or someone who just loves a good chuckle, this day is a golden opportunity to tip your hat to Bentley's ingenious creation. Let's gear up to celebrate this unique poetic form, where creativity knows no bounds, and every famous name is fair game for a playful tease.
Key Takeaway
Day Activities
-
Kick off National Clerihew Day with a morning brainstorming session. Grab your favorite notebook or open a new doc on your computer. Think of famous figures you find intriguing or amusing. Jot down quirky facts or traits about them to spark your creativity. Remember, the goal is to keep things light and humorous, so no need to get too serious!
-
Midday, why not host or join a Clerihew writing workshop? This could be a virtual meet-up with friends or fellow poets. Share the Clerihews you've penned, offering each other feedback. It's a fantastic way to refine your verses, get inspired by others' creations, and, most importantly, share a good laugh over the whimsical lines.
-
As the day winds down, consider publishing your Clerihews online or in a local newsletter. Social media platforms are perfect for sharing these witty verses. Tag your posts with #NationalClerihewDay to connect with others celebrating this unique form of poetry. Who knows? Your Clerihew might just brighten someone's day or inspire another budding poet!
Interesting Facts
1. Invented by Edmund Bentley
In 1930, Bentley crafted the Clerihew, adding humor to poetry with a unique structure.
2. A Quirky Poetic Structure
Clerihews are four-line verses with a specific rhyming scheme, focusing on famous personalities.
3. Celebrated on July 10
National Clerihew Day honors this amusing poetic form, encouraging creativity and sharing.
4. A Day for Wit and Humor
It's a time for poets to showcase their wit, crafting Clerihews that entertain and amuse.
5. Tribute to a Literary Contribution
This day pays homage to Bentley's impact on poetry, celebrating his innovative Clerihew.
Why We Love This Day
-
Celebrates creativity and humor: National Clerihew Day is all about letting loose with words, showing that poetry doesn't always have to be serious or stuffy. It's a chance to chuckle over the quirks of famous folks, proving that everyone's got a lighter side. This day reminds us that creativity can be both fun and funny, making it a blast for anyone who loves playing with words.
-
Honors Edmund Clerihew Bentley's legacy: Not every day do we get to tip our hats to the clever minds of the past, but on July 10, we do just that for Mr. Bentley. His invention of the Clerihew has given writers and readers a unique way to mix laughter with literature. It's pretty cool to think about how one person's bright idea can spark a tradition that brings smiles to faces year after year.
-
Encourages sharing and connection: In today's fast-paced world, taking a moment to share a giggle or a grin through a witty four-liner can be a breath of fresh air. National Clerihew Day isn't just for poets; it's for anyone who appreciates a good chuckle. Sharing Clerihews with friends or on social media can turn an ordinary day into a parade of punchlines, connecting us through the universal language of humor.
Past & Future Dates
| Month | Day | Year |
|---|---|---|
| JULY | 10 | 2022 |
| JULY | 10 | 2023 |
| JULY | 10 | 2024 |
| JULY | 10 | 2025 |
| JULY | 10 | 2026 |
| JULY | 10 | 2027 |
| JULY | 10 | 2028 |
FAQ
What national day is on July 10?
It's National Kitten Day, National Piña Colada Day, National Day of Prayer Reflection and Thanksgiving in Montserrat, Conwy River Festival, Global Energy Independence Day… and much more!
What is National Clerihew Day?
On July 10 each year, National Clerihew Day in the United States celebrates a poem style created by Edmund Clerihew Bentley. His four-line biographical poem offers a brief, though whimsical, approach to poetry.
Why is July 10 special?
July 10th is the 191st day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. On this day, the city of Dublin is founded, French foreign intelligence agents blow up the Greenpeace boat Rainbow Warrior in New Zealand, and the American Episcopal Church becomes the first to approve a rite for blessing gay marriages.
What is the structure of a clerihew poem?
A clerihew is a whimsical four-line biographical verse in AABB rhyming structure. Lighthearted in nature, clerihews distill a person's biography into four simple rhyming lines. The result is a quick, often satirical, summary of a person's life, career, or achievements.