Narratives In Nutshells
Huck Finn's with Jim on board a raft
That travels down the Mississippi.
Mark Twain recounts the tale with craft
Although the ending's less than zippy.
Father William and family, so Swiss,
On an island that seems like a zoo
Work hard and achieve wholesome bliss,
Though its natural history's askew.
Alice, once through the misty glass,
Becomes a living chess-girl
But not, whatever comes to pass
A mere quiescent yes-girl.
Young Ollie meets the Artful Dodger
And learns a very useful trade
From Fagin, curious old codger,
But then the interest starts to fade.
Jerome Betts
