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Trying to Be a Poet: Does Dr. Seuss Count?

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By Christoph Reilly



The Poet

Dr. Seuss made a great impression on me as a child, and I suppose that this is true for many children and their parents, as much today as then. He was the world's greatest poet. You are smiling as you remember your own early experiences with Seuss' surreal and sublimely creative books and illustrations. You think, “yes, as a child he surely was the world's greatest poet.” But you misunderstand me. I mean he IS the world's greatest poet...period.

Now I know that all you poetry aficionados are pooh-poohing in your cappuccinos and latte's right now while reading your volumes of Dickinson, Whitman, Yeats, Plath, and Pound, and I'm sure you have a point, but they did not influence a child...ever. They never stopped a person from crying though I'm sure they've caused a few to start.

But this is not to argue who is the greatest poet or even a biography of Theodor Seuss Geisel, but rather a look at the depth of his influence on me of which I was unaware. I believe this is true of many people, for can we ever really pinpoint who and when and where persons, places, or things changed the patterns in our lives? Or changed the way we thought? Or changed the way we dream?

My awareness of Seuss' influence on my writing came about because of fellow HubPages writer Lita Sorensen's Random Poetry Challenge. I wanted to participate, but never considered myself much of a poet. In fact, I am not what you or I would call a fan of poetry. But this was a misconception I had about myself, for I loved Shakespeare—even the sonnets—and have myself written many songs, and who is Shakespeare but a poet, and what are songs but poems set to music?


Writer's Block

I did not write a poem that first day of the challenge, or the next. Or the next. I read the poems other writers were putting out there, and that made me not write a poem too, for many of these were very good. The challenge passed, and it was only then that I finally forced myself to at least try.

It was a struggle in the beginning. A voice inside myself gave me quite enough criticism as I struggled along, and that is when the remarkable thing happened: I began to write down the criticisms too, and then responded to them, and back and forth, and realized that the poem had taken on a life of it's own. It took a structure I had never intended. And many parts were...Seussian. It was as though Dr. Seuss had been asked to write a serious poem. Of course, it may not be that good—I don't know—but it cannot be denied that it has been influenced by Dr. Seuss, as we shall see.

My intention was to write a poem that was 100 percent serious. I had been fighting the impulse to write in a glib style, but it wasn't until I fell in step with this new thing that it began to flow and come to life. It was as though Dr. Seuss' spirit had interceded on the poems behalf. All of this made me ponder other things that might have been influenced by the good doctor. And it was everywhere. In every song I have written. In every sentence I have constructed. In every joke I have told. In the way I perceive humor. In the way I walk and talk. Even if it isn't funny, even if it's so obscure you couldn't see it with a microscope, it is there. For who can know the degree and magnitude of a particular influence?

I present the poem to you now. You will see the influence, of course, you can't help it. Whether it is good or not, meh, but Dr. Seuss would like it I think, and that makes two. Not counting me.


By Foto Kamera / flickr
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By maurice flower / flickr

My Sweet Castilion

This screen of mine, vacant, blinking,

taunting me, inviting, winking

me forward, to write with heart

or just, at least, to bloody start

to spill my guts upon the green,

sanguine as soldier's vented spleen.

 

Out, damn words, this ain't Macbeth,

does not determine my life or death,

but like the dam, cement a cracking,

when it spilleth forth it won't be lacking

for sheer volume shall pour out

to flood your heart or make me pout.

 

But what to say about an angel, my sweet Castilion,

who favors me, this old reptilian

leather brained, scaly heart,

who puts the horse behind the cart

who dives right in, head first it's true,

and swims with joy right in the goo of love.

 

(Whoa. What was that: That word you said,

You have rocks there in your head.

Yeah, you. That word. The one you wrote,

You're such silly, stupid goat

That one so fine, as fair as she,

Oh..She'll light your fire... in effigy!)

 

(So cut the crap, write it down,

Don't play the buffoon, cynic clown.)

Say what I feel and be sincere?

(It's what you want so put it here

and do not fear if you should gaff.)

The least I'll do is make her laugh.

 

Ok. So here goes...

That stupid voice I'm hearing knows

that I mean every word.

 

Sweeter than sugar...(that's a laugh,

could have been written by a Giraffe,

dig deep, I'll help you start,

say rather "Sweeter than a Lover's Heart.")

That's good. I like. It sounds so chivalrous,

If a bit, perhaps...carnivorous.

 

And so:

 

Sweeter than a Lover's Heart

Lighter than an Angel's wings

(Is that lighter than birds and bugs and things?

Lord, do you have to make everything rhyme,

You take too long and I don't have time.)

All right! Shut up! Sticks and stones!

Go gnaw on thistle and gristle and bones.

 

And so:

 

Sweeter than a Lover's Heart

Lifted by your Mystery, your Laugh, your Charm,

Swept up in Angel's Air, in Spirit Arms,

Your lovely fingers run through my hair and caress my soul.

Hold me tight, suspended within the bosom of your caring love

Above the world in imagined clouds, overwhelmed in undeserving peace.

 

(Not bad, not bad, for a silly bloke,

of course "lovely fingers" made me choke,

but that's to be expected.

And "caress my soul" is 101,

but it's clear you've tried and had some fun.)

Well...thanks, I stand corrected.

 

(Do you think you'll write a poem again?

Leaves of Grass or Gunga Din?)

More like cats and hats and eggs and ham

and existentialists named Sam.

Normally I write these articles,

not so many parts but lots of particles.

 

(Hmmm. You're having trouble ending, yes?

Can't wrap it up, that's what I guess.)

No, I can, I was just thinking,

it came to me in a moment's blinking,

the writer ceases on page to write,

but the poem goes on into broad, black night.

 

Dr. Seuss' Green Eggs and Ham

Five Interesting Facts about Dr. Seuss

In 1942, Seuss was placed in charge of the Animation Division of the Armed Forces Motion Picture unit by Colonel Frank Capra. Capra had created a concept and a character named Snafu (an unofficial acronym for "Situation Normal, All [Fouled] Up"). While in this position, Seuss oversaw the production of 24 Snafu cartoon shorts with the character designed by Art Heineman and Chuck Jones.. The voice of Pvt. Snafu was performed by the immortal Mel Blanc.

While in the Armed Forces, Seuss wrote Design for Death, a film that later won the 1947 Academy Award for Documentary Film.

Seuss had no children and was a recluse, spending much of his time alone in his studio.

Seuss (his mother's maiden name) is pronounced to rhyme with "voice." Not with "loose" as it is commonly pronounced.

He supposedly wrote "Green Eggs and Ham" on a bet with his publisher, Bennett Cerf, to write a book using only 50 words.

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Comments

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goldentoad profile image

goldentoad  says:
10 months ago

CR- Don't let those other poets read this, they might just give up and retire, a new heavyweight champion of poetry is crowned.

ajcor profile image

ajcor  says:
10 months ago

absolutely brilliant! had me both rivetted and laughing - I can say no more ...cheers

Cris A profile image

Cris A  says:
10 months ago

two thumbs up! way way up! :D

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

GT: You're too kind. No..really. Thanks

ajcor: Well, coming from a master, I appreciate your taking the time to read my humble offering. Thanks

rockinjoe profile image

rockinjoe  says:
10 months ago

Seussian? You're a friggin' genius. Another one hit out of the park!

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Thanks, cris! Don't get that thumb out of joint!

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Thanks, Rockinjoe. I am humbled.

agvulpes profile image

agvulpes  says:
10 months ago

Christoph,

I am amazed that I am in such company, Shakespeare and Dr.Seuss would both be chuffed that they inspired you to write such stuff!

As Marlon Brando might say, "Bravo"

indy cindy profile image

indy cindy  says:
10 months ago

I once had a hand drawn cat in the hat pic ... autographed by Ted Geisel himself. I sure wish my autograph collection hadn't have been trashed. His autograph was only one of hundreds ... but definately one of my favorites.

Anyway ... C'est la vie.

Dr. Seuss was a fine entertainer indeed ... and you have followed in his footsteps marvelously. Very well done!

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Ag: Why that's a poem you wrote right there! Well done! and thanks!

Indy Cindy: Thanks for the comment. I would certainly treasure such a thing and I'm sure you did. Shtuf happens. Thanks!

Shalini Kagal profile image

Shalini Kagal  says:
10 months ago

You are just great, Christoph, you are

And not a poet, not near, not far

Could hope to touch that Reilly star

You’ve Seuss’d ’em all and raised the bar!!

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Shalini: Thanks, and a poem! For me? I'll treasure it always! (I see where I've missed an apostrophe up there. Oooo, that makes me mad!)

Thanks for the lovely verse! I'd give you one but I didn't rehearse!

Shalini Kagal profile image

Shalini Kagal  says:
10 months ago

I'm really touched Christoph, I am :)

btw, I must have read most of them to my daughter while she was growing up - don't quite know who enjoyed it more!

Elena. profile image

Elena.  says:
10 months ago

Mr Reilly -- What everyone so far said, plus: I hope you made her laugh and then some! :-)

bevy400 profile image

bevy400  says:
10 months ago

Bloomin brilliant i havent laughed so much in ages....I woke up this morning feeling a bit sorry for myself as yet again my illness has flared up.this has put the bounce back in to my arthritic feet and sent a tingling down my writing hand...So thanks to you,today i will be able to try and write some more poetry and hopefully better ones as well lol.....Brilliant hub,i look forward to the next.xx

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Shalini: Why thank you. That's so sweet. (Glad I didn't go with: Thank you for the lovely comment, I feel so good I have to vomit.) I almost did, just because, you know, I'm an ass.

Anyway, thanks for your sincerety, and I'm sincere too when I say it means a lot to me.

Elena: I never said I wrote it FOR someone in my text up there. If she ever sees it, I think she'll laugh a lot, and I think it will make her feel good, which is all any poet ever asked (at least I think, I'll have to ask one.) Thanks for coming by. You know it's always nice to see you.

Bevy: I'm glad I helped you get your day off to a good start. And it was very nice to tell me so. Thank you!

Elena. profile image

Elena.  says:
10 months ago

Oh but you did, Chistopher! And I'm not reding between the lines, either, I just read it in the poem: "The least I'll do is make her laugh." :-)

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Oh, yeah.  I guess I meant I didn't say I would SHOW it to her.  And there's a big difference between writing something for someone and having them actually see it.  Oh, no...I'm too shy.

And then of course they might see it and not know it was for them.

Teresa McGurk profile image

Teresa McGurk  says:
10 months ago

Absolutely, completely, and totally brilliant. Clever diction, clever rhymes, clever rhythm -- Shalini is right, you have raised the bar.

Thanks for entertaining and enlightening. (I think I need gin, now, to drown all my poetic pretensions. Too bad I don't drink. . . .)

Dang, Christoph, this is bloody marvellous stuff.

Constant Walker profile image

Constant Walker  says:
10 months ago

This is a great tribute, Christoph! Seriously. And Green Eggs & Ham was one of the first (if not THEE first) books I ever read. Thanks to Dr. Seuss, I quickly graduated from his rhymes to Savage Sam. My first real book.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Teresa: Thank you, Teresa. Coming from a fellow board-trodder, that means a lot to me, not to mention one so skilled and learned in Shakespeare (I read what you wrote in the Shakespeare thread, the translation to modern english-marvellous). Drown out no poetry aspirations--I am more Shel Silverstein than Kipling--but I'll take your compliments just the same. Really nice of you to say these things and you have given me a friendly shove into the day ahead. Thank you!

Constant: And thank you, too. I think our childhoods were equally "Seussful". I'm sure there were some, but I can't even remember any other books when I was a kid. Thanks for checking this out and the comment!

Pam Roberson profile image

Pam Roberson  says:
10 months ago

Christoph, oh hubalicious one, this is funny and also the most unique poem I’ve ever read, and I loved it. I enjoyed the intermingling of hysterical inner dialogue, and the poem within the poem was touching and beautiful. To me, “caressing my soul” is never 101. Having someone touch your soul is the deepest experience possible. At the risk of sounding like an overzealous fan, your writing always touches and inspires me.

"Sanguine as soldier's vented spleen"…lol, now that is quite a poetic image. :D And “goo of love” is priceless!

Carry on you gifted man you. :)

spryte profile image

spryte  says:
10 months ago

People that discover poetry as adults are often pretentious snobs about it...

But when a child discovers it, the magic quality of it stays with them for a lifetime.

Well...at least that's how I feel about it...and wtf do I know?

Like you, I am a big fan of Dr Seuss. I read all of his books and watched every program that was created. The Lorax and the Mighty Onceler...Sneeds..(wow, I just realized how they sort of look like those damn Snuggies on late night television commercials!)...they're forever a part of my vocabulary.

I was also enamored of Ogden Nash who teetered on the brink of being a serious poet at times...but had this rather irreverent side that appealed to my twisted sense of humor.

And then...as an adult, I happened to be buying a book for a child and stumbled upon a Shel Silverstein book called "A Light in the Attic" and I was so taken with it's humorous whimsy that I had to purchase one for myself. I'm still not sure who enjoyed it more...me or the kid...

Who says poetry has to be serious? I absolutely loved your rather sweetly self-conscious attempt to speak from the heart...it reminded me of a little boy with a bunch of wild flowers hidden behind his back, hoping that his lady fair would see them for the roses that he wished they could be. Any woman, worth anything, would say awwwwww...and fall in love with that message of devotion. :)

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Pam: Ok, I touched you, but did I "caress your soul?" You have picked out my two favorite lines, I think. Thanks for recognising their..."putridity."

Thanks for reading this. You never fail to say the right things and to make the recipient of your honeyed praise feel truly special. For that I thank you from both of us--me and the voice in my head.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Spryte: It's always a joy to have you come by. I could have won a free trip to Ireland, and you would still be the highlight of my day.

I love your analagy: I never put it into words but that is exactly the feeling I was after. I can remember myself in the flower scene you describe--the flowers little more than weeds gathered from a multitude of fields--and that fear you feel, fear of rejection I suppose, but absolutely compelled to give them to her come hell or high water.

I agree on Poetry not having to be serious. Nobody owns the rights to "poetry," and humor is in itself a divine art, for what is more life affirming? What is more healing than a hearty laugh?

Thanks so much for your thoughts...worth way more than a penny!

Pam Roberson profile image

Pam Roberson  says:
10 months ago

Oh yes indeed. You caressed my soul and my funny bone all at once. :)

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Pam: OOOooo. I wondered what that shock I felt was! It was ELECTRIC!

spryte profile image

spryte  says:
10 months ago

*blush*

Now you have me smiling from ear to ear. Who needs poetry when such beautiful prose as your compliments exist in this world? :))

2patricias profile image

2patricias  says:
10 months ago

Green Eggs and Ham is not only wonderful poetry and fun to read out loud - it is also the BEST way to persuade kids to try something new!

Very original Hub: funny and thought provoking. Serious and slightly joking.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Spryte: Yea? Maybe I should have said your thoughts are worth even more than a quarter! I'm going out to peruse the fields right now, looking for those flowering weeds, which in a way is what I feel like today!

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Twopatricias: I never though about that--getting kids to try new things. I don't have kids (nor did Seuss) but I have always wanted to try green eggs and ham. Really.

Thank you for coming by and taking the time to leave a thoughtful comment. Thank you!

Melissa G profile image

Melissa G  says:
10 months ago

Brilliant poem, Christoph! I thoroughly enjoyed it. :)

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Thanks, Melissa G., glad to have you!

Denny Lyon profile image

Denny Lyon  says:
10 months ago

Dr. Seuss channeled through Shakespeare's snout, quite tricky and downright fabulous, thanks for the unusual and entertaining treat! I'm always up for a thought process essay poem too, so I'll share you by blogging this on over to my poetry blog for other readers to enjoy!

Patty Inglish, MS profile image

Patty Inglish, MS  says:
10 months ago

Excellent, excellent Hub --

I would read it on a moose, Or while riding a cabose - Even tangled in a noose!

I purchased a book of Seuss's WWII materials and illustrations thru the mail and was surprised at the range of subject matter, including erotic, in the large volume. It was stolen! I must find another copy.

C.S.Alexis profile image

C.S.Alexis  says:
10 months ago

Wow! This is great stuff. Seuss is one of my all time favorites. I had the best librarian in the world when it came to story hour each month in grade school. It was her way of reading aloud that carried me away and into the magical world of Seuss. Yes I could hardly wait to go to hear her read the next Seuss book as they were being published and released during my time in elementary school. Like you a dramatic impact was made on my youthful mind. I might have to agree that Seuss was one of the most inspiring poets of his time, for sure, of my own time. I would love to read the book Patty speaks of above, has to be enlightening and most interesting. This is one of the best things I have read in some time. Muchly enjoyed! Big Thumbs Up!

trish1048 profile image

trish1048  says:
10 months ago

Bravo! Shy? I hardly think so :)

Lovely, lovely poem!

ripplemaker profile image

ripplemaker  says:
10 months ago

Hi Christoph, we have a collection of Dr. Seuss books for the kids to enjoy and read in our preschool. :-) I am so amazed at how he comes up with words and storyline that as adults I still enjoy them a lot too. Your poem blew me off! Amazing stuff you wrote here. :-)

anjalichugh profile image

anjalichugh  says:
10 months ago

Behold! A poet is born,

in whose mind a critic sojourns;

who helps him write with elan,

and that makes me his fan.

========

That was for you, Chris.

Sally's Trove profile image

Sally's Trove  says:
10 months ago

Oh my. You tipped the charts on this one. There's everybody in there, but there's Christoph first. Maybe like Seuss, maybe like Shakespeare, maybe like, even Ginsberg, but solely Reilly. Love the rhyme, love the meter..a stimulating mix, but again, solely Reilly.

Enough from me about that.

There's been an argument for years about whether children are natural poets. I end the argument with this: Yes they are. Grown-ups forget the truths in the little things, the truths children see only because they are children and not yet tainted. A grown person who can express such truths is the child and thus the poet.

Seuss, Silverstein, and Moore, and a few more, retained their child-ish-ness to produce great works that not only delight humankind but inspire both young and old. Who doesn't love a cadence? Who doesn't love a rhyme? Who doesn't love a metaphor that smacks to the quick and touches the heart? Who doesn't love the idea of green eggs?

Years ago, I led poetry workshops for young children (haha...they taught me about poetry). I think those children would love to have met you.

Your adoring fan, despite the fact that I couldn't find your reference to me via your death Hub without Trish's help. (Scroll to the right? Hey! I should have been on page 1.) S.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Denny Lyon: Thanks for coming by and your astute comment. I'll have to get over to your poetry blog to see whereof you speak. I appreciate it! I didn't know I was channeling Seuss through Shakespeare's snout until you told me!

Patti: Well, I'm now officially floating on air. I love your verse! It's absolutely perfect!

I will write you one or two, I will write them when I'm blue, I will write, throughout the night, even if I have the flu! That book sounds intrigueing. How did you find out it was stolen and then what happened?

C.S. Well, you've charmed me! Take me, I'm yours! Wait...I'd better check with my wife. But seriously, I love the story of your teacher and her "reading of the Seuss." Teacher's can be so important. It's a job that should pay great and accept only the best and brightest. Your teacher sounds like just such an educator! It is interesting to really think about who and what has influenced us. It can be rather surprising.

As for the rest of your comment, higher and higher I go. Such nice things to say. I appreciate that you took the time to say them. Thank you.

Trish the Dish! What? You don't believe I'm shy? Sometimes, painfully so. Hiding behind the Internet is different. Depends on my mood. Sometimes I can be really outgoing and gregarious, and other times I'm a regular wall flower. True.

Thanks for coming by. Did you get the Homeric influence?

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Ripplemaker: Thank you so much for your kind words. They are appreciated, and I am pleased to hear them from you, a top hubber for sure! It means a lot to me, that you came to read something that I had written and then took the time to leave a note. Sweet. Thank you.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

anjalichugh: What a lovely, sweet poem! Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness. Methinks you are the true poet. As always, your comments are most welcome, always kind, always delivered with care. Thank you!

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

So, you're not mad at me? I really thought you were and I was very stressed about it. If you had campaigned for my demise and joined with the traitors, you would have made page one. Heck, you would have had a whole page to yourself! It was just to show you I care. Ok. I'm done with this. I feel better. No need to answer.

Now to the important matter: Um...you were saying? Seriously, you have me in some pretty good company there, or at least influenced by some pretty good company. As usual, your kindness towards me and my writing spins my head.

I love your observations on the natural poet in children. I had never thought about that, especially in a scholarly fashion, but I can see how that is true. I think that's another thing I was trying to get at without really understanding what it was, but it fits with what you say, I think, in that children haven't been told that "this is what a poem has got to be," and so they are free to do poetry as it exists naturally in them. No rigid guidelines, no critiqueing of imagery, etc.

Something that was originally in the article but that I cut out, was about a poetry class I took in college. My work was always judged as a failure by the teacher (whom personally, I liked very much.) I even turned in some song lyrics, which he promptly dismissed as song lyrics, like song lyrics were NOT poetry. I never understood that. After all, it rhymed. It stuck to a pretty rigid meter (because it had to fit the music.) To this day I do not understand it. My only saving grace in that class was that the teacher did that thing at the end of the semester where he and the student discussed what grade should be given. I got so upset and argued so fervently that he upped my grade to a B. Ha!

Anyway, I think that has a lot to do with my fear of me trying to write poetry. Is it any wonder?

I'll bet you were a great poetry teacher. I wonder how many of them think back to you and know that you were a big influence on them. I bet you would be surprised!

It's things like your saying that I've "tipped the scales" that keep my head in the ether! Thank you!

Sally's Trove profile image

Sally's Trove  says:
10 months ago

OK. All the schmooze aside. I love you and you love me. And I'm sure your wife knows this, that is, if you've shared. And even if you haven't, I'm sure she knows anyway. You have many who love you on HP. So there. :)

I'm not surprised that you feel affection for a teacher who gave you a grade you didn't like or expect. Apparently, you found worth in him, and he in you, and that made things good going forward. Sort of. The good news is that this academic criticism you received did not prevent you from going on with your creativity.

So, about poetry. When kids are 5 years old, they've already been subject to learning about what is right and what is wrong, according to their elders, and how they should deal with it. Some kids will fly with the wind and say screw you and go on about their stuff, others will say, OK, I'll try to do better because you say I am wrong. Other kids will incubate all of this while doing nothing, and the realization of their imaginings will happen later in life. Maybe the last is that happened to you.

Have I told you I am your adoring fan?

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Sally:  I guess I should have been more forceful than just saying "no need to answer."  What I meant was, "Don't even speak on this subject."  Anyhow, thanks.

Did I mention I was in college and a little older than 5 years old?  I must have made that sound more serious than it was also.  It didn't matter that much to me, and it didn't stop me from creative pursuits.  I never intended to write poetry anyway.  I still wrote songs and theatre and "show businessed" my butt off.  It's just that when it came to me wanting to try on this occasion, the memory came back, and I thought it might be contributing to my hesitancy.  Besides, the conservatory program at that college kicked me out for not being good enough.  I got my first professional job the next week and never looked back, except to thumb my nose in their general direction.

Did I mention that I am your fan twice?  Or that I am your fanniest fan in fandom?  Well I am.  So there!

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
10 months ago

Hi, Christoph--

I read this earlier--I just had to go to that place they call work.  And!  I like it.  It's very Dr. Suess Shakesperean Doggerel/poem journal, all in equal measure!  I love how you fit it in with your prose--making it, as someone said--something of an art form in itself, :).  But then your hubs always are.

Shalini Kagal profile image

Shalini Kagal  says:
10 months ago

Just popped in to see how swollen your head was *grin*

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Lita: I am happy to see you. I knew that if that title didn't get you to visit one of my hubs nothing ever would. But see, you know what it is and I don't. To me it's just a thing, but you have something to call it. I am but a hack, but kind of endearing...a little?

Thanks for your kind words. It means very much to me in a way I think you understand. Thank you.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Shalini: Well...let me tell ya. If it doesn't go down soon I'll have to throw my hat collection in the trash. I'm not sure if it will ever return to it's original diminsions. Might require surgery...or a transplant.

Shalini Kagal profile image

Shalini Kagal  says:
10 months ago

Was just a-wondering if that was why you got rid of the hat in the avatar before you posted this - you saw it coming now, didn't you :D

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Shalini: No, but that's a good story. Another is I had to go incognito when I discovered the murder plot against me. The truth is, I am writing in several places now, and am beginning to actively seek work, so I needed all my Avatars to be somewhat the same, and more realistic. No big mystery. But I may use that story in the near future!

Thanks for the excuse!

Sally's Trove profile image

Sally's Trove  says:
10 months ago

I have never been mad at you. Even when I didn't make page 1.

You can be 5 years old when you're 30, you know? It can still feel the same. :)

trish1048 profile image

trish1048  says:
10 months ago

Christoph,

I share that with you, surprisingly enough.  I believe I am two people, the very social Trish, and the very shy Trish.  I was told once that someone thought I was conceited.  I was shocked to say the least.  They mistook my quietness as conceit.  When I'm in situations where I don't really know anyone, I won't be the one to initiate a conversation.  I will, of course, respond if someone approaches me and then I become engaged.  Not really sure what that's all about. And you, dear sir, are simply delightful.

And yes, I did :)

Lifebydesign profile image

Lifebydesign  says:
10 months ago

Wow. You continue to suprise and delight, and you're not afraid to do anything! Superb.

Lifebydesign profile image

Lifebydesign  says:
10 months ago

duplicate

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Sally: Come to think of it I feel that way now. Actually, I feel that way now! Reminds me of a story (what doesn't?). I have a friend (well...an aquaintance...his agency does all the advertising for my wife) and we were with them and there young son who was, coincidentally about 5, and I get along well with kids. He took quite a shine to me, and we spent most of the evening goofing on each other and so on. Later, his Dad asked me how I did that. I said "What?" And he told me that his son had ADD and was never occupied by anyone or anything like that, that they couldn't ever get a sitter, etc. It was, of couse, because I'm a kid too, as you say.

Trish: I've had the same problem with people thinking I'm stuck up, when in fact I was more like terrified. Now put me in front of 1000 people with a script in my head and nothing bothers me. Isn't that strange?

LifeByDesign: How dare you? I've never been so insulted! (Paranoid yet?) Ha! Really, thank you for your kind words. You seem to have no other kind of words. I like that "never afraid to do anything." Thankyou for saying so.

LifeByDesign: Awww. You meant it so much you had to say it again. How sweet!

gwendymom profile image

gwendymom  says:
10 months ago

CR, you are frickin brillaint! How do you have so much talent in one body and will you share? Cheers to you with that promised martini with two olives. Seriously if you can share I could really use some help, I haven't wrote a hub I have been proud of in awhile, I really could use some of that talent, or maybe just make some kind of trade with Pam for some male muses.

btw, I was laso a big fan of Seuss, and Shel siverstein, where the sidewalk ends was one of my favorites as a kid, Loved it. I tried getting my kids into siverstein but they just thought was weird, go figure, kids thinking their parents are weird. Any they did love Seuss though.

trish1048 profile image

trish1048  says:
10 months ago

Christoph,

I truly believe each of us is actually two people.  One for the outside world, and one for our private world.  I don't find it surprising, based on what I've observed through all your writings, that a child would find you thoroughly enjoyable.  You have an undefinable quality about you that shines through everything you say.

Once people get to know me, they are often surprised because I hear comments such as, wow, you're really nice, or, gee, I love talking to you.  Go figure!

Good night and sweet dreams,,

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

gwendymom: Oh sure. You just stoll in here in your fancy clothes throwin all thase nice words around like you owned the place! Really though, thank you for saying those nice things. You can have anything of mine you want! You just say the word and it's yours.

Yep, we share the same interest in poets. Thanks for coming by, sweetie. Always a pleasure to see you! Don't be a stranger!

Trish: I agree with you whole heartedly about the two selves. And I have no trouble believing that people come to realise that you are really nice. I can see that from way over here!

countrywomen profile image

countrywomen  says:
10 months ago

WOW!! I never knew you had such deep feelings and write such beautiful poems. Any girl who is the focus of your warmth must be overwhelmed with your words. Thumbs up for a great hub.

A small tribute for Christoph/Pepe:

I know a great guy called Christoph Reilly

Believe me he is one of the best poets really

He has an alter ego who is called pepe

Whose contribution may not be as deep

But both manage to entertain everyone

and get accolades like "job well done".

 

 

 

Lifebydesign profile image

Lifebydesign  says:
10 months ago

Yep, I couldn't help but repeat my comment earlier. Really its good! In fact I'm going to tweet it to all my other tweeps. If you get a bunch of traffic don't say I didn't warn you.:-)

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

countrywomen: Ha ha! That poem is so cute. You make me laugh from happiness! Thank you so much for your kind words. You really know what to say. Thank you so much!

Lifebydesign: Hey, thanks for the tweets or tweeps. You just send all those tweety birds over. They don't call me Sylvester for nothing! Thanks...really! Nice of you to go to that trouble.

Ardie profile image

Ardie  says:
10 months ago

Dr Seuss is surely one of my favorite entertainers of all time. I have so much fun reading his books to my kids...plus many of his stories have a deeper meaning behind them than first seen. And now I can add you to his ranks, well done! :)

trish1048 profile image

trish1048  says:
10 months ago

Awww, thanks so much Christoph! I try, anyway :)

Zsuzsy Bee profile image

Zsuzsy Bee  says:
10 months ago

Cristoph what can I say that all the others before me have not already said. Really well done. If I can be honest here I'm not much for poetry except for the fun kind. The schmaltzy stuff or the one where it's a guessing game of what the hell the writer wants to point out just doesn't do a thing for me. Give me Seuss or as of now Reilly and I'm there.

great hub regards Zsuzsy

Dottie1 profile image

Dottie1  says:
10 months ago

Wow Christoph, that was great. I love a Dr. Seuss poem and I loved yours too! Thanks :)

Shalini Kagal profile image

Shalini Kagal  says:
10 months ago

...and there comes that 100!! Congrats Christoph! You'd better weigh your boots down to stay grounded :D

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Ardie: How nice to see you! Thank you so much for your compliments. I don't know if you should read me aloud to your kids though! Ha! Really appreciate your stopping in!

Trish: No. You accomplish where others try!

Szuszy Bee: Thanks for stopping in and having a read. Thanks for your thoughts and taking the time to leave word on my humble hub!

Dottie: Thanks for spreadin' the love!

Oh, Shalini: Get that pin away from my bubble! Yea, pretty cool to wake up to. I hit 100 one time before. Lasted for about 2 minutes! Thanks!

Shalini Kagal profile image

Shalini Kagal  says:
10 months ago

They do say there's nothing quite like the first time - well, this one's been on for a lot longer - revel in it Christoph while the rest of us turn a putrid green :D

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Yes. I think I'll have a cigarette.

trish1048 profile image

trish1048  says:
10 months ago

Geeze, Christoph!  Now you have me blushing :)

Thank you!

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Trish: Shalini started it!

ripplemaker profile image

ripplemaker  says:
10 months ago

Christoph, do you know this hub is number one in google if you type this title? Yipee! I'm so happy for you! You did a great job! Way to go... :-)

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Hi ripplemaker! I saw that over in the forum. Thanks for pointing it out though, and for the congrats!

trish1048 profile image

trish1048  says:
10 months ago

So she did, with that 'swollen head' comment LOL...I don't think a swollen head will be flattering to my image, especially since I don't wear hats :)

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Trish: My head "de-swolled" pretty fast, along with my score. Ah, well.

goldentoad profile image

goldentoad  says:
10 months ago

I don't know how long I can keep it up, I am absolutely dying.

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
10 months ago

You are BAD, GT... What's up with that?--is she some kinda Christian-Nazi? I didn't read the hub close enough.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Lita: Yea...and G.T.'s just yankin her chain! I was laughing so hard! And some people--I wont mention any names--believe him. How ya doin. I read through that Politics thread...didn't see where he said that. I guess it was somewhere else.

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
10 months ago

Hidden by now, thankfully. Maybe deleted, who knows. I may have freaked him out--he hasn't been around.

goldentoad profile image

goldentoad  says:
10 months ago

Friday night fun.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

you were killin' me!

Lita: Yea, probably. He ought to be. Got to take a quick dinner break. Back soon!

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
10 months ago

Chris-- See latest finance forum post. lol

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

ok

Anna Marie Bowman profile image

Anna Marie Bowman  says:
10 months ago

I have always loved Dr. Seuss!! I had the whole collection when I was a kid!! Remember the one that came with the little plastic bookshelf? I think it comes with a backpack now.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Anna: I don't remember the shelf. Do you remember the book it came with?

Anna Marie Bowman profile image

Anna Marie Bowman  says:
10 months ago

It was a little, red, plastic shelf. It was molded plastic with The Cat in the Hat on both sides. It came through the mail with a collection of Dr. Seuss books. I think I had The Cat in The Hat, Green Eggs and Ham, Hop on Pop, Dr. Suess's ABC's and a few others.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Oh, we probably never got the collection. Actually, now that I think about it, I was probably many, many years before you...they might not have had that then.

Lita: That was good. Is that stuff true? Like the "come within one post" stuff?

Anna Marie Bowman profile image

Anna Marie Bowman  says:
10 months ago

Thanks for the compliment, but I am older than I look.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

I stand by my original statement.

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
10 months ago

We have two cars. One (lol) is an Audi (like real liberals) .... And no, I'm messing with him. Jerk. He edited his message I told you about to say simply 'stalker.'

funnebone profile image

funnebone  says:
10 months ago

Very good..all you need now is a posse and some bling and you''l be the official HUB rapper

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Lita: Oh, no, I figured that was you messing with him, but it sounded as though you actually looked up the rules about "hub stalking" and knew whereof you spoke, but just exaggering a little.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

funnebone: Yea! And some hub chicks dancing around behind me!

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
10 months ago

Nah. There are rules? They exist? (Really, do you know?)

I'm certainly a hubstalker, as I read and posted maybe a total of 5-6 messages to his hubs. He also follows Mark Knowles around.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Hey, I know! Everybody follows everybody else around. Lot's of people follow me, and sometimes I follow one of them. It's a great way to see stuff you wouldn't normally see. I already freaked a girl out cause she got the wrong idea...or else I said something...I don't know. We had a good repoire...and it's true I really liked her and she WAS cute...anyway, she had a bad reaction. It really made me feel crappy. I'm afraid to write her or anything...she's made it clear--without saying so--that she wants me to keep away from her. Thing is, I am the easiest guy in the world to get rid of. I have to much pride to keep going after somebody who has rejected me. (Not that I was "going after her," I mean, WTF. Another case of confusing the Internet with real life I guess.)

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

I don't know about any "rules," that's why I'm asking you, but I bet it's just to let the office know and they'll warn somebody or even kick them off the site if the offense was bad enough. I'm just guessing.

Lifebydesign profile image

Lifebydesign  says:
10 months ago

Chris, I'm sorry to hear that happened to you. You really are one of the sweetest guys here, and you build good rapport!

ps don't forget us when you're all famous and stuff and have the dancing chicks and all... :-)

Anna Marie Bowman profile image

Anna Marie Bowman  says:
10 months ago

Sorry, Chris, I hope you aren't offended, and if you want me to, I will go away. I am your stalker...well, one of them, anyway. I have seen many through the course of my stalkings.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

LBD: Do you want to be one of the Hubettes? Lita is already signed up!

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Of course I don't want you to stop. I don't call them stalkers. I call them sexy babes following me around!

Anna Marie Bowman profile image

Anna Marie Bowman  says:
10 months ago

I see, you see us more as your groupies, then??

Lifebydesign profile image

Lifebydesign  says:
10 months ago

lol- Hubettes! Love it. Absolutely, I'll be in the line-up. Hey could you write a hub about what we'd be doing etc, you know, just so we do your Chris brand appropriate justice.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Er...no. And you are trying to entrap me, Ms. Bowman. I'm just saying it must be a coincidence. (Ok, Everybody is joking, right? I'm not being stalked, never said I was, and girls aren't following me around either. I don't have any groupies, never did, don't want any.)

Anna Marie Bowman profile image

Anna Marie Bowman  says:
10 months ago

Not at all! LOL!! No entrapment here. Besides, since when is having groupies a crime?? Is there some HubPages authorities that I would be able to report you to?? LOL!

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

LBD: It sounds like a good, funny idea. I don't know though. Kinda backed up now (in fact, I'm supposed to be writing instead of goofing around.) If I did, I'd probably make the guy someone else. Someone that it's just funny thinking of them in that position (see, if I was the guy, it's not that big of a stretch [I'm KIDDING]. Any suggestions?

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Anna: No, it's just all this talk makes it seem like I have a big head (I do of couse but that's beside the point! I just don't want to be PERCIEVED as conceited.)

Lifebydesign profile image

Lifebydesign  says:
10 months ago

Hubbie groupies are good.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Everybody like for other people to read what they write.

mistyhorizon2003 profile image

mistyhorizon2003  says:
10 months ago

Ohhh, goody, can I be one of your stalkers too Chris?? I am already a stalker of GT, but that is only so I can offer porn guidance counselling LOL ;)

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Well...I DO need virgin lessons.

mistyhorizon2003 profile image

mistyhorizon2003  says:
10 months ago

so what exactly are you 'virgin on' Chris???

Lifebydesign profile image

Lifebydesign  says:
10 months ago

I'd be very suprised if you came off as conceited. You have so many styles and I know you'll try anything! So I dunno, you'll come up with something...Heck just be that guy!

mistyhorizon2003 profile image

mistyhorizon2003  says:
10 months ago

BTW, this hub reminded me of the Dr. Seuss books that I had long since forgotten about. I especially remember "Green Eggs and Ham".

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Misty: Whatever do you mean? I'm a VIRgin vergin. I thought you knew. I think Green eggs and also Cat in the Hat are my fav's, but that is probably what everyone thinks too. Actually, I might like Green eggs the best.

Ok, LBD. I'll present it to my staff and see what they say.

mistyhorizon2003 profile image

mistyhorizon2003  says:
10 months ago

I reckon you are "virgin, or vergin' "on being the most stalked male hubber on hubpages :)

PS. I liked the "Cat in the Hat" too :)

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Ok. Who's stalking me? I want names! (So I can thank them.)

ajcor profile image

ajcor  says:
10 months ago

Can I be a virgin on vergin or a stalker as well or even both or maybe a groupie? it's never too late to teach an old dog new tricks or so they say?......did you say there were lessons or something?.....cheers

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

I mean't to write virgin. Misty is giving lessons.

mistyhorizon2003 profile image

mistyhorizon2003  says:
10 months ago

Where do I begin? Gwendy, Ajcor, Spryte (normally), Jewels, Trish, Anna Marie, Lifebydesign, Lita, Shalini, Dottie, Zsusy etc etc etc ........................

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

No, no, no. You're trying to get me into trouble. (And really, on a couple of those names you are way off the mark.)

ajcor profile image

ajcor  says:
10 months ago

no one wants you to be in trouble!

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Your name wasn't bandied about. If it were you would not be so quick to chide me. Right, aj? You might resent being called my groupie, and then you would become self-conscience about it, and then you would not come round so much. That is what I am afraid of. Do you see, my dear?

ajcor profile image

ajcor  says:
10 months ago

absolutely and rightly so Christoph - always the thoughtful gentleman....polite boundaries are good in the circumstances as you describe!.....cheers and thanks

btw i meant my above comment!

Shalini Kagal profile image

Shalini Kagal  says:
10 months ago

Misty - you're soooo right - of course I'm stalking him :D....hmmmm....is that the HubPolice siren I hear????

ajcor profile image

ajcor  says:
10 months ago

I wouldn't worry too much - people know you for who you really are!

btw szuszy has a lovely story on the hubbers hangout at the moment....

Anna Marie Bowman profile image

Anna Marie Bowman  says:
10 months ago

I am inspired to write something...

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

I'm not.  I like it when people read my stuff and comment and I enjoy talking with them.  don't want to upset the apple cart is all.  If Misty (or anyone) wants to say THEY are my groupie, that's all fine and good, but one can only speak for one's self.

I also realize that it is a huge compliment to me and it is flattering and that's all that was intended, so it's all very sweet.  Thats all.  Like Shalini, for instance, she really IS stalking me!  I think shes got plans to...oh...

Hi Shalini!  How are you?

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Anna: Write something for me too, would you?

AJ: Yes, the same story was posted on the forums a couple of weeks ago, but it is a nice story. It is time to go to bed methinks. Have a nice night...or day. Hope it's not too unbearably hot for you today!

Lifebydesign profile image

Lifebydesign  says:
10 months ago

Misty's right, I'm a Chris groupie, although I would never want him to find out.

ajcor profile image

ajcor  says:
10 months ago

It is so hot you could cook your eggs on the cement! horrible even the fans aren't helping - wish I had air cond..in Sth Aust I read that about 35 old dears have died through heat exhaustion ----pretty dreadful and it looks as if it is going on for some time yet...come the rain ....sleep well in your wintry climate!

Anna Marie Bowman profile image

Anna Marie Bowman  says:
10 months ago

Here ya go, Chris...now the truth is out...

http://hubpages.com/hub/Christoph-Reilly-and-his-C

Amanda Severn profile image

Amanda Severn  says:
10 months ago

I do not like green eggs and ham, I do not like them Sam I Am,

I'd love to write a poem now, If somebody would show me how,

Aha! What's this? I think it's Chris!

A rose by any other name would smell as sweet,

The lad's ablaze, with words replete!

Out, out damn'd spot! the quality of mercy is not strained,

(I'm sure the Bard would not be pained)

Seuss and Will so sweetly wed

In harmonious bliss, It must be said!

Well done Chris!

Your poetry is not amiss

Benson Yeung profile image

Benson Yeung  says:
10 months ago

Hi Christoph,

congrats on your new journey to perfection.

Uninvited Writer profile image

Uninvited Writer  says:
10 months ago

Dr Suess is the best

I hold him close to my chest

I like to read about the cat

the one, you know, in the hat

And I love all the rest.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Lifebydesign: Well now the cat's out of the bag. What exactly am I supposed to do? Should I hire some bodyguards? Autograph 8x10's? Go on a concert tour? I have no idea.

Anna: Oh my gawd! I have not read it yet, but when I first signed on a few minutes ago, it's the first thing I saw--at the top of Hubtivity. I'm afraid. Very, very afraid!

When I said, "Write something for me," I meant something I could put my name on and publish as my own. Not ABOUT me! Geeeeezzzzzsssshhhh! Ok. I'll go read it in a minute.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

ajcor:  It sounds unbearable!  I can't stand the heat.  Although my family always had air conditioning, when I moved out I didn't have it for about 10 years or so.  It could get so miserably hot, but I bet it was nothing compared to what you are going through.  I feel for you.  I really do.

Amanda:  How lovely!  Thank you so much for the gift of your words!  It's an honor to be the recipient of such fine verse.  Thank you!

Thank you, Benson.  Your services may be required to deflate my head.  And while you're at it, there this boil on my butt.......

Uninvited Writer:  Ah, a very adept turn of the pen yourself!  Thanks for penning this classic on my page.  Thank you!

Dr. Evilseuss  says:
10 months ago

Bravo! You have inspired me to work on my epic poem "Soilent Green Eggs And Ham!" You are one of a kind, Christoph. Keep it up.

Your pal

Dr. Evilseuss

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Dr. Evilseuss: Your name is vaguely familiar. Can't quite place it. Have we met? In any case, I am greatly anticipating your new epic, "Soylent Green Eggs and Ham." Please publish it soon as my attention span is decreasing with each day. Thank you.

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
10 months ago

Chris-The above half-cracked proposed epic and author may be too obvious; the poem perhaps full of pretension. I hearby christen you Chris "The Bard" Reilly (as I have so christened Ralph Deeds the "Warren Buffett" of Hubpages).

Dr. Evilseuss profile image

Dr. Evilseuss  says:
10 months ago

We have indeed met, sir. And, I suspect, we shall meet again.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Lita: Why thank you for the christening! I shall be happy with the title. At first I thought you wrote "The Lard of HubPages," and was glad to see that I was mistaken! Re the above proposed epic: It will be interesting to see.

Dr. Evilseuss: Hmmm...thought so. The avatar is also familiar, as I used it in my blog not so very long ago. Are you me or I you? I can't keep track.

B.T. Evilpants profile image

B.T. Evilpants  says:
10 months ago

HA! I guess he should have gone with Horton Hires A Ho!

Patty Inglish, MS profile image

Patty Inglish, MS  says:
10 months ago

Tim Horton is obviously diversifying in the recession,

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

B.T. That's funny. You could do them all! (No, I don't mean "do" all the Ho's.)

Patty: Yes. Now you can get coffee, doughnuts, and rolls...in the hay.

Patty Inglish, MS profile image

Patty Inglish, MS  says:
10 months ago

How about the drive thru?

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Patty: I confess I had never heard of Tim Horton and had to look it up. But I think they are about to introduce their new, "Ho to go" promotion.

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
10 months ago

Hmm. May be a knock-off of Ms. Inglish's business model. Could be mistaken, but 'epic' here and that certain diction are giveaways everywhere.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Lita: If you are referring to the actual identity of Dr. Evilseuss, I know who it is, since I am the one who called him Dr. Evilseuss many moons ago. You are right: It is obvious!

Patty Inglish, MS profile image

Patty Inglish, MS  says:
10 months ago

Copies of Evilseuss's Limericks to be given as promotional trinkets through the drive thru with each purchase of the new product...

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Does one of the Limericks begin: While Evilseuss was in Nantucket?

Sarah Songing profile image

Sarah Songing  says:
10 months ago

Wow, Christopher, this is quite possibly the longest list of comments I've ever had to dig through to leave my own! And after only four days- phew!

Lovely hub. I love Dr. Seuss myself, and cannot get enough of reading his books with my three year old. We are both fans of his wonderful made-up words and stick-in-your-brain rhymes.

Right now we've been reading "Oh the Thinks You Can Think" and the best part must be:

And you don't have to stop/ You can think about schlopp/ Schlopp, schlopp, beautiful schlopp/ Beautiful schlopp with a cherry on top.

Were there ever any finer rhymes written? I think you'll agree, no. Thank you for the hub and your poem!

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

Sarah Songing: Thanks so much for your wonderful comment. I LOVE that rhyme you included. He sure has a way, doesn't he? Very pleased you came by to read my hub. Thanks!

blondepoet profile image

blondepoet  says:
10 months ago

Brilliant. I loved it, I am in awe.You have a wonderful talent .I am with you 100% on Dr Seuss,I also had heaps books when I was a kid.Sheer mastery his books were,noone will ever surpass his style.Ten out of ten for this one.Now I must go and have a Bourbon and do my aerobics.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
10 months ago

blondepoet: Have a bourbon and then do aerobics? Why, I declare, I do like you more every day! He was certainly a master that no one will ever match. But we mere mortals can try.

I sincerely thank you for your enthusiasm and support, and your kind words. It's bedtime for me, so you've made my day - tomorrow. I hope to return the kindness!

k@ri profile image

k@ri  says:
9 months ago

I really had fun reading this! I like the fact about Green Eggs and Ham...only 50 words in the book. No wonder I could recite it from memory!

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

k@ri: Thanks for coming by and the comment. Yes, that's one of my favorite facts about Dr. Seuss. I really want to believe that it's true. Thank you and glad you had fun!

teet  says:
9 months ago

I am sure that stuff takes talent but i dont see how people can write dumb stuff like that.

sciencewithme profile image

sciencewithme  says:
9 months ago

I say both Dr Seuss and Shel Silverstein count! They inspired many kids.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

teet: When you say "write dumb stuff," are you referring to the writings of Dr. Suess, this article, or your comment. I can see only one logical answer to that question.

sciencewithme: I agree. They count perhaps most of all. Thanks for the comment.

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

Chris that was so much fun. Lucky lady your "sweet castilion." Had to look up words again. So Castillion must be her name cause it doesn't come up in a dictionary. And sanguine: bloody red, got it. Always an education. :)

The comment above by teet makes me fearful to publish anything though.

Pest profile image

Pest  says:
9 months ago

Teet...My, you are right.  ** packs up pencils, paper and lap top...looks for minimum wage job in the classifieds **

*edit* I don't see how people can write dumb stuff like that comment.

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
9 months ago

Hi, Chris-Happy B-day Dr. Suess!!  Was that yesterday, I think ?  Castillian--as in Spanish, yes?  And somebody probably dark-haired.

And for his pretty in-depth understanding (though hub-art, basically) of people, Chris earns the title of The Bard.

(There are always critics!  Pretty sure Shakespeare had them, too.)

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

Randy:  Lita has the answer below, but what dictionary are you using?  Just google "castilion definition" and it comes up all over the place.  But it's all just made up.  I needed a rhyme for reptilion.

Don't worry about teet.  I'll spray him with my Deet.  On his head and feet. A worthless piece of meat.

Come back, Pest.  Teet didn't mean it.

Lita:  I didn't know it was Suess' birthday!  Thanks for bringing that to my attention.  Yes, I'm sure Shakespeare did have critics.  There will always be critics, and usually, they possess no talent of their own and are resentful of those that do.

You are very wise, Lita Sorenson.

Pest profile image

Pest  says:
9 months ago

Dr seuss is a cat,

you should all know that. 

Dont you see him above,

he's not wearing a glove

that silly cat

he is wearing a hat

 

Thank you, thank you...I will be trolling here all night.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

You must get in line to troll this hub, mister.

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

Spelled the way you did in your poem, it comes up as a last name. Spelled the other way, like Lita wrote it, it came up as a place in spain. So you meant your sweet, ficticious, Spanish lady then.

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
9 months ago

And I'll bet it's either Chris' wife, or a spirit-lady OR both. :)

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

castilion:

adjective

of Castile or its people, language, or culture

noun

a person born or living in Castile the variety of Spanish spoken in Castile, now the standard form of the language in Spain

I spelled it with one "l".  There is the definition above - with one "l".  Thanks for checking up on my spelling though. I meant "Spanish woman from the Castile region of Spain."  Does everything have to be true?  I think you can make things up. It's called "artistic license."  Ok, Cheese Whiz?

My wife is Lebanese.

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
9 months ago

She has dark hair, then!! And is Mediteranean. Hey--my BF IS 1/2 Castillian. Artistic license is fine by me... I guess we are performing 'literary criticism' on you. Don't you hate that?

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

Chris, I sorta feel spanked now, Teach.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

Dark hair?  If you say so.  Make her hair green for all I care.  It rhymes with reptilion and it works...that's all I care about.

As for literary criticism, I am flattered that, one, you consider this literature, and two, that you feel I am worth your time.  So thank you both!

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

You feel spanked? You're trying to make me forget where I was. As I was saying...where was I?

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
9 months ago

Just teasin' ya, Chris. I actually HATE literary criticism (well, maybe too strong a word--hate). I'm a writer, not a stuffy academician (OK, there are some academicians that are not stuffy, but as an artistic type, I think you know what I mean.)

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

Lets not everybody get all serious. This is fun! Weeee! Fun!

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

Yes I do.

Pest profile image

Pest  says:
9 months ago

Hickory dickory dock...

the clock has struck past ten

straight into a sock

I must do it again

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!

Ugh I said "weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee" I hate myself!

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
9 months ago

DARN! Serious has always been my issue, ;) But Randy will discuss spankings with you!!

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

Lita I was trying to bait him but doesn't seem to wanta bite?

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
9 months ago

OOOOh he willl... give it time. I'm aware of his bite!

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

Sure, what do you want me to bite? When do you want me to bite it? Where should the bite be?

TheMoneyGuy profile image

TheMoneyGuy  says:
9 months ago

Here I was cruising the Craigslist Ads and there was all of this over here.

TMG

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

And Pest, how many times have I told you about bringing that thing into the house. Take it outside.

TMG: This is better than Craigslist. The girls are hotter.

Tom Rubenoff profile image

Tom Rubenoff  says:
9 months ago

Seuss rocks!

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

Chris, If you can't figure out the what and where by yourself its not gonna be much fun.

TheMoneyGuy profile image

TheMoneyGuy  says:
9 months ago

Amen to that!

TMG

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

Tom: Yes, he does! You're a scholar!

Well, with a name like Randy Behavior, I just thought you might have some unique ideas. But if you want me to take the lead, I can do that too.

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

If you want me to live up to my name, I'll have to get in touch with my pirate side.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

Arrrrggghhh. Shiver me timbers! I'll make ya walk the plank!

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

Now, that sounds like fun! Still waiting on the spanking though...

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

Coming right up. How do you like it? With my scabbard? Or my hook?

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

Damn are you gonna go make look up words again. I'm gonna guess short sword?

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

It's the "holster" for the sword. The thing they slide the sword in and out of. In and out. In and out. Gawd...see what you're doing to me??

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

LOL, no seriously, "out loud". And that sounds safer than an actual sword.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

And why would you guess "short" sword? You could just have easily guessed "really long" sword.

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

Because that would have been a longsword, rapier or saber, right?  I would know better than to insult your manhood from the wet end of the plank!

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

The spirits have spoken to me. The picture is you. No doubt about it. Yes?

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

Yes. 5 days ago.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

Why 5 days ago. Was there something special 5 days ago? Is that when you met me? Oh, by the way, I got some new pics of me today. Haven't posted any yet, since you asked.

sixtyorso profile image

sixtyorso  says:
9 months ago

As usual I arrive after the action. Great Hub CR inspired poetry. What can I say that I haven't said before.

@Randy if you are not Spryte you could be Misty?

@ Pest watch that keyboard!

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

Its just my profile says joined 5 days ago. Thats the day I had to come up with a picture that didn't have my face on it. I met you before that obviously. Will you put the pics up tomorrow?

So I don't get any points for my sword knowledge or witty pun?

sixtyorso profile image

sixtyorso  says:
9 months ago

CR strikes again your magnetic charm attracts yet another georgeous Hubber!

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

Sixtyorso, Randy is my "alter ego" so the real me has to be conservative... don't think Misty qualifies.

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
9 months ago

I think I know who she is! (I'm good at that), but I won't say!!!

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

Lita, If you really do, don't tell.  I'd have to go back to being good then.

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
9 months ago

I do! But will never tell. Lips sealed!!

Elena. profile image

Elena.  says:
9 months ago

Howdo, Chris, everyone -- dropped in to see what all the hubbub was about... let me say, there are some parts to this rambling conversation that have me shaking my head...  Laugh!

I know a few ways to unseal lips, Lita. Watch your back now. Or front. Or... never mind!! :-)

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

Sure you can have points...if I can squeeze any more into your "point container." It's kinda full.

Lita: I would ask you who you think it is, but you shouldn't say.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

Hey, Elana. How are you this fine evening?

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
9 months ago

Oh! It's toooo easy. But still, I promised & I will never SAY. She deserves to have fun.

Elena. profile image

Elena.  says:
9 months ago

We all do, Lita!  Laugh ....  To tell the truth, I'd rather not know!

Mr Reilly,  I'm very well, thank you, except it's morning over here in the land of Spain! :-)  I see you've been discussing Castillions and Castillians and what not.  Kinda sorry to have to say I'm not from those parts of Spain :-P

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

She needs to have more fun, I think.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

Are you sure? Isn't Madrid considered Castile?

Elena. profile image

Elena.  says:
9 months ago

Yes it is! I was thinking of birth, and you of residence. Granted, then, I am Castillian by residence. And with Castillians I share the Latin slash Mediterranean looks, dark hair, darkish skin... can't say as I can compete with Randy there, she's sexy as all get out and that without a head shot! Laugh!

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

What parts of the previous conversation has you shaking your head Elena? We've all been as innocent as lambs. I swear.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

Aha! I see what you mean though. If I lived in Spain, I could hardly call myself a Spaniard.

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

Not blessed with dark mediterranean good looks I'm afraid.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

As innocent as the Silence of the Lambs. Your looks may not be dark or Mediterranean, but they are good.

Elena. profile image

Elena.  says:
9 months ago

That's what I was thinking, Chris -- but by residence I am definitely a Castillian!

Randy, I'll have to trust you on that one, won't I, you innocent lamb you? :-)

Gotta go for a coffee refill!

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

I can float on compliments all night, keep em comin'.

Elena. profile image

Elena.  says:
9 months ago

Say please and I'm sure we'll find it in our little hearts to be good to you, Randy B :-*

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

The wind is going out of my sails.

Elena. profile image

Elena.  says:
9 months ago

That's the thing with time zones! When I get started, everybody else is falling asleep. And when everybody else is getting started, I don't care jack about hubs or comments or anything else anymore! Laugh

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

I'm going to have to say goodnight. Goodnight, Elena. Goodnight Randy. Hope I see you tomorrow.

Randy Behavior profile image

Randy Behavior  says:
9 months ago

That sounds like good night. I started a bubble bath 4 hours ago, put it on hold Chris when you came online to play. Which I've enjoyed immensely. Just wish Elena, you joined in sooner. So "please" come again, both of you. I'm off to soak.

Christoph Reilly profile image

Christoph Reilly  says:
9 months ago

Good night, Randy. Say cheese!

Elena. profile image

Elena.  says:
9 months ago

Sweet dreams, you poet you Chris! 

And good soak to you, Randy!  Can't promise as to joining any sooner, I started out at 5:30am today, and I fear at my age that's comparable to a high risk sport!  Laugh!  May the bubbles keep you company!

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