
A whimsical scholar steps into the world of a turn‑of‑the‑century streetcar, using the hum of wheels and the chatter of passengers as a backdrop for a surprising collection of love sonnets. Penned by a humble car conductor on the backs of transfer slips, the verses blend earnest romance with the rough‑edge slang of everyday life, offering a rare glimpse of poetry that rides the same rails as its creator’s daily route. The introductory essay, delivered in the voice of an eccentric professor, treats slang as a natural evolution of language, framing the sonnets as a scientific‑like proof of their literary worth.
Listeners will be drawn into the lively cadence of a bustling city street, hearing the conductor’s heart race with each stanza as he watches a passing muse among the crowd. The work’s playful mix of earnest affection, witty observation, and the unique soundscape of a moving trolley makes it a charming, off‑beat listening experience—perfect for anyone who enjoys poetry that feels both scholarly and street‑wise.
Language
en
Duration
~23 minutes (22K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by David Schwan and David Widger
Release date
2004-03-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1876–1959
Known for wit, satire, and remarkable range, this American writer moved easily from light verse and humorous sketches to novels, screenplays, and lyrics for the stage. His work captured the playful, fast-moving spirit of early 20th-century popular writing.
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