Songs of a Savoyard

audiobook

Songs of a Savoyard

by W. S. (William Schwenck) Gilbert

EN·~1 hours·88 chapters

Chapters

88 total
1

Transcribed from the 1920 Macmillan and Co edition of “The Bab Ballads”, also from “Fifty Bab Ballads” 1884 George Routledge and Sons edition by David Price, email ccx074@pglaf.org

2:35
2

THE DARNED MOUNSEER

1:23
3

THE ENGLISHMAN

0:21
4

THE DISAGREEABLE MAN

1:23
5

THE COMING BY-AND-BY

0:53
6

THE HIGHLY RESPECTABLE GONDOLIER

1:41
7

THE FAIRY QUEEN’S SONG

0:40
8

IS LIFE A BOON

0:31
9

THE MODERN MAJOR-GENERAL

2:07
10

THE HEAVY DRAGOON

1:46

Description

Step aboard a lively fleet of comic verses that capture the spirit of Victorian wit. From a cheeky sea‑shanty about a misidentified frigate to a proud proclamation of English identity, each piece snaps with clever rhyme and playful exaggeration. The collection weaves together satire, gentle mockery, and affectionate observation of everyday foibles, making the listener feel both amused and oddly recognized.

The poet’s ear for rhythm turns even the most mundane subjects—bureaucrats, lovers, and reluctant heroes—into memorable musical sketches. Though rooted in the culture of the late‑19th century, the humor remains surprisingly fresh, inviting listeners to relish the absurdities of pomp, pride, and polite society. A perfect companion for a short commute or a relaxed evening, these verses sing with the charm of a bygone theatrical world while speaking to modern ears.

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Details

Language

en

Duration

~1 hours (103K characters)

Release date

1997-06-01

Rights

Public domain in the USA.

About the author

W. S. (William Schwenck) Gilbert

W. S. (William Schwenck) Gilbert

1836–1911

Best known as the witty lyricist behind the comic operas of Gilbert and Sullivan, he helped shape Victorian musical theatre with sharp satire, absurd plots, and a wonderfully precise ear for language. His work still feels lively thanks to its mix of elegance, mischief, and memorable songs.

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