The Poetical Works of Addison; Gay's Fables; and Somerville's Chase

A lively anthology gathers the verse of a celebrated essayist, the witty moral tales of a famed fabulist, and the spirited hunting narrative of an 18th‑century country squire. The collection opens with a warm, slightly tongue‑in‑cheek biography that sketches the squire’s upbringing, his love of the chase, and the financial strains that coloured his later years. Interwoven with these sketches are thoughtful critical essays that illuminate the period’s literary tastes and the personalities behind the works.

The poetry ranges from polished, graceful lines that earned praise from the era’s leading critics to more modest verses that reveal the author’s personal charm. Gay’s fables retain their sharp humor and timeless lessons, while Somerville’s “Chase” captures the excitement of the hunt with vivid, rustic detail. Together, the pieces offer listeners a snapshot of Georgian literary life—its elegance, its excesses, and its enduring appeal.