Five Lines & a Laugh: Learning to Write . . . and . . . Cite a Good, Clean Limerick

A review of the five-line limerick throughout its 150-plus years of history reveals a limited purpose that cries for expansion.Much of the earlier literature was devoted to nonsensical rhymes that appealed to young children in a nursery setting. Asthe modern limerick pattern of five lines evolved during the twentieth century, those favoring its use as a ribald form ofentertainment for adults won out over those favoring alternate uses. "Clean" limericks, for example, were summarily dismissed. Only a "dirty" limerick could be a good limerick.Julian G. Martin's assessment of the limerick as an instrument of expression allows for a much broader purpose. Whilenonsensical and earthy limericks deserve a place at the table, the limerick is too good an instrument to be restricted to those categories. He says let it be used to brighten one's day in ever so many ways.This book explores several possibilities. Limericks can be used for voice mail greetings, family celebrations of all kinds, class reunions, advocacy of a cause, and family histories, to name a few. Why not make the limerick a lighthearted, useful art form, giving it a touch of class that transcends barroom humor? Such a question may stir yet another round of conflict among limerick lovers as opposing sides once again gird for battle over the proper use of limericks.