Obliviously On He Sails: The Bush Administration in Rhyme

Full review here: https://thebeerthrillers.com/2024/02/07/book-review-obliviously-on-he-sails-the-....
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Excerpt:
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One of the strengths of “Obliviously On He Sails” is Trillin’s fearless approach to satire. He does not shy away from pointing out what he sees as the follies and failures of the Bush administration. Yet, there’s an underlying playfulness to his critique, which prevents the poems from becoming overly harsh or mean-spirited. This balance is crucial in maintaining the reader’s engagement and fostering a reflective rather than reactive response.

Critics and readers may find that Trillin’s pointed satire reflects partisan perspectives, which could be a drawback for those seeking a more show more neutral analysis of political events. However, for fans of political satire and poetry, Trillin offers a compelling blend of entertainment and insight. His work not only serves as a historical reflection on the Bush years but also as a reminder of the power of poetry to influence public discourse.

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Full review here: https://thebeerthrillers.com/2024/02/07/book-review-obliviously-on-he-sails-the-.... show less

I was really excited to read this book. The concept sounded original and hilarious, and I was so sure I'd have a good time reading it. While reading, I found out that the poems were originally broadcast on a weekly radio show. This was a great idea. I would have much rather heard the poems in context with the world's events, rather than randomly combined in one book. I can understand someone wanting to read this after having heard the poems on the show, but other than that, this is definitely one of those books you want to pick up at the library, instead of purchasing it. I did enjoy the poems for the most part, although I really would have loved it if each poem had a blurb accompanying it, explaining the backstory behind the poem, as I show more found myself completely unfamiliar with the content of some of the poems. show less

A small book of doggerel by the Nation's Deadline Poet, Calvin Trillin. Most of the poetry focuses on the Bush years, so has not worn well, but can still be fun.

this cannot be appreciated unless one is ridiculously well-informed about the details of two-party politics. last year Onion headline "Friend who's into politics makes you feel stupid again" rings vaguely true here.

Of all the poems in this book right now "American Plan to Stimulate the Economy"
"We may just give them all we've got
It takes a lot to get them hot".

Well "stimulate" has another meaning now

things i learned


OUR PRESIDENT IS A FUCKING MORON!!!!

oh wait, I didn't learn that....i already knew it.