from the pen of Professor E. P. Barrows, of Oberlin. THE DAY OF WRATH. The day of wrath! on that great day Nature and death, with dread surprise, To meet their Judge, throned in the skies. Then shall the book, whose pages hide The Judge shall sit, the Just and True, What patron can my cause make sure, O righteous Judge, throned in the skies, From conscious guilt, O Lord, I groan, When, Lord, the goats, at thy command, O place me then on thy right hand! And when th' accursed, o'erwhelmed with fear, Lowly before thy throne I bend, Be merciful to my last end. Great day of tears! when from the tomb PUNOLOGY. A SATIRE ON SCHOLASTIC LOGIC. The art of punning is of extreme antiquity. Indeed, it is no improbable stretch of the imagination that ascribes its origin to the Enemy of mankind. The widely spread and deeply rooted hold which this peculiar habit has upon the human race, can be most satisfactorily accounted for by regarding it as of diabolical origin. Ridiculed, contemned and sneered at in all ages, it has still held its own and spread ever wider and deeper. It is as broad and catholic as the sunlight. It knows no distinction of class or of character. Some of the most notorious and wicked despots and criminals have been adepts in this art; while, on the other hand, many of the most pious and able of the clergy have not withstood its subtle temptation. But old as the art is, never, to my knowledge, has any attempt been made to formulate a science of punning or to establish the art on anything like a scientific basis. Such will be the purpose of this paper, and if my researches seem somewhat desultory in nature, and sometimes fail of apodictic certainty, much must be forgiven to the explorer in an untrodden realm of science, and you will remember that this does not purport to be a monograph, but simply a brief setting forth of the principles upon which the science and the art depending upon it rest. The science and art of punning are related to each other in something the same way as the corresponding branches of logic; concerning which nice distinction, I refer you to an extremely erudite and long-winded discussion by Sir W. Hamilton, who devotes some hundreds of pages to debating whether Logic is a science or an art, and finally concludes that it is a little of both. I would not claim that no one can pun without studying the formal rules of strict science. Such an attempt would be not only futile but ridiculous. Indeed I have heard some of my dearest friends and classmates, who never knew that there was such a science, pun,—and villainously! But a thorough understanding of the capabilities and limitations of the art, is necessary-not only for practicing the more complex art forms, but even for listening understandingly and appreciatively to the works of the masters; and this can be attained only through a thorough mastery of the principles of the science, and a rigorous drill on copious exercises illustrating each of these points; I purpose this evening to explain some of the simpler elements of the science, and possibly at some future time I shall give some brief remarks as to the means for securing the best results in imparting them to the young. In the first place, then, it is necessary to have a definition, and the want of any adequate one in the English language shows the great lack of careful attention to this important branch of mental science. Webster defines a pun thus: "An expression in which a word is capable of different meanings; an expression in which two different applications of a word present an odd or ludicrous idea; a sort of quibble or equivocation." "A pun is a species of intellectual exercise, which consists in so framing a remark, sentence, phrase, word, sound or gesture, that one or more sounds, words, or groups of words, contained in, implied in, or represented by the above remark, sentence, phrase, word, How wretched! It shows a lamentable ignorance of sound, or gesture may be interpreted in two or more the first principles of the science. In the first place he says, "an expression"; but in its ordinary rhetorical significance the word is altogether too narrow, and that it is this significance which is intended is quite manifest from the connection. different ways by the one who hears, reads or sees the above remark, sentence, phrase, word, sound or gesture, or so that one or more sounds, words or groups of words contained in, implied in, or represented by, the aforesaid remark, sentence, phrase, word, sound or gesture, In the second place he says "in which a word is capa- may have or be fancied to have some more or less ble," etc.; but often it is not a word at all that is remote resemblance to some other sound, word or group punned on, but a part of a word, or on the other hand of words contained in, implied in, referred to in, or it may require several words, each of which has but one represented by the above remark, sentence, phrase, significance by itself, to make a single pun. Not only word, sound or gesture, or more or less remotely connectthis, but in a majority of instances the word as under-ed with the conversation at hand. A most detestable stood in the implied meaning is not at all the same thing." word as that in the sentence given. This is almost invariably the case with puns between two languages. This you will better appreciate after further study of the science. In the third place he says, "in which two different applications," etc. But on the one hand the adept thinks nothing of giving three or four interpretations to the same word, and on the other there is a small but choice class of puns which consist of the same application for two or more words. Some doubtless will object to the phrase, "a species of intellectual exercise," and urge in support of their criticism numerous examples of puns made quite unconsciously. But nevertheless I maintain my original proposition. For while the nominal author does not intend the pun and does not see it, manifestly it is not a pun at all, but a simple construction containing the latent possibilities of a pun a little more openly displayed than usual. That is to say, it is simply an accidental combination of words possessing the capabilities of a pun so that the hearer can interpret it into a pun in his inner consciousness. When this is done it is a pun, I freely grant, but not on the part of A, who spoke the words, but of B, who interpreted the pun. And here the intellectual exercise comes in, -not so strongly as in the case of original work or of accepting a less In the fourth place he says, "present an odd or ludicrous idea." Rut this is far from being always the the case. I have heard ministers of the gospel, in the very pulpit, make the most sober kind of puns in dead earnest and without causing the slightest amusement to anyone. A list of examples might be made from history or even from the Scriptures which would effec-evident opportunity, but still to a certain degree. It tually demonstrate the fallacy of this part of the definition. would be well if we had more of patient, painstaking interpreters instead of those who without experience or education rashly attempt the higher flights of creative genius. Before formulating any rules or canons of the science, it will be necessary to give a few definitions, in order to insure perfect clearness. 1. The Primary of a pun is the natural meaning or construction which a person of sound mind would give to it. 2. The Secondary is that usually less obvious construction which may be given to it. The Tertiary, etc., occur only in complex puns and are numbered in the order of their obviousness, 3. The Antecedent is the word, phrase, sentence, etc., in which the pun occurs, and contains the Primary. 4. 4. The Consequent is that imaginary word, phrase, etc, which the hearer constructs from the secondary meaning of the pun. It is with diffidence that I venture upon a definition when so great a master has failed, but the need is pressing. Some definition-must be given for a starting point; an εì σr. It may be that some of the gifted minds which surround me, will be able to suggest some 5. Prolegomena. The words or phrases which offer valuable changes, and any corrections will be gratefully the opportunity to the punster are called the Prolereceived. Here then is my definition: gomena. 6. The Server. The person speaking or otherwise promulgating the word, sound, gesture, etc., in which the pun occurs is called the Server. These divisions, though by no means exhaustive, are sufficient for reference in a strictly exoteric treatise like the present. Having now determined the nomencia7. The Receiver. The person hearing and inter-ture to some extent, let us seek for principles on which preting the word, phrase, etc., is called the Receiver. to base the canons of the science. 8. The Prolegomenator. The person speaking the words, etc, which give an opportunity for a pun is called the Prolegomenator. In the examples, the Server is denoted by A, and the Receiver by B. In the more perfect puns, the Consequent approaches so nearly to the obviousness of the Antecedent, that it is impossible to distinguish them except arbitrarily. Having no defined the principal terms in use, we come to Classification. We find that puns differ from each other in five particulars. In the first place, a pun being properly a form of wit, an appearance of spontaneity is essential to its proper effect. Hence we have CANON I.-The Server should never be the Prolegomenator also in the same pun. This rule is flagrantly violated in the case of the popular conundrums which serve to amuse in certain social circles, such as, "When is a sailor not a sailor?" the answer being, "When he's a board." I blush for my race as I record these facts, but such is the lamentable truth. 1. They are either Monoglot or Polyglot. The Monoglot pun is that in which the Primary, Secondary, etc., are all in the same language. The Polyglot pun is that Mr. Oliver Wendell Holmes gives certain heartin which the Primary is in one language and the Sec-rending examples of the same kind; for instance, where ondary and the Tertiary, or both, in another. he makes "John" ask, "Why is an onion like a pianoforte?" Not receiving any response he boldly answers himself: "Because it-s-melodious." Any ordinary pun will serve for an illustration of the Monoglot. Shakespeare gives many examples of Polyglot puns, where A speaks in a foreign language and B understands him in English. There is in existence a poem which makes perfect sense in either Latin or English, a monument of industry in this direction. 2. Pure or Mixed. The pure pun is that in which all of the Primary is in one language. The Mixed pun is that in which a part of the Primary or a part of the Secondary is in one language and the remainder in another. 3. Simple or Compound. The simple pun is that in which the Primary is capable of but two interpretations. The compound pun is that in which it is capable of three or more interpretations. There is a species of the compound pun known as the composite pun, illustrated by James Russell Lowell, where in one of his poems, speaking of mock-stone houses, he says: "Why use a deal of stone, When stone of deal is cheaper?" The compound pun must be carefully distinguished from the double pun, or that in which two Primaries occur in the same antecedent. These are in reality two different puns and will be so treated in analysis. The two terms are often confounded in popular usage. An example of the double or rather multiple pun is in that of the Italian who rushed into a bookstore and made the following variation on Shaksperian names: "O telle! Cash I owe Des de monie, Eago." 4. Written or Spoken. This distinction is hinted at ir Jevon's Logic, where he says "that words are ambiguous either in sound or spelling." The most perfect pun is capable of being given by either method. The spoken language is the true language and written characters are only a means, more or less imperfect, of recalling the oral sounds. In punning, as in poetry, the final reference must be made to the Hence the superiority of oral puns. ear. 5. Rational or Irrational. This distinction is based upon the degree of sense which the Primary and Secondary make in their due connection. In other words, a rational pun is one in which either interpretation is perfectly natural, and does not shock the healthy understanding. The importance of this division is manifest. 6. Perfect or Imperfect. If it possesses all the good qualities of the foregoing pairs, the pun is perfect; otherwise imperfect. For the sake of tyros and others to whom first-class impromptu work is impossible, this rule may be evaded in two ways: 1st. By having the prolegomenator in collusion with the server, who is prepared beforehand with the answer. This method is very simple. It is called Collusio a priori. 2d. The other method is more difficult. It consists in dextrously leading or "forcing" the conversation so as to bring it unnoticed to a point where the desired pun can be made effectively. This is simply an elaboration of the prolegomena, and is called the Preparatio subtilis, or the Covered Service. In this almost as much art may be displayed as in extemporaneous work. The accomplishment is, however, often abused by using it to introduce stolen puns. One should have his ethical foundation thoroughly settled before allowing himself to become proficient in this tempting but dangerous branch. Obviously this methed is too long to admit of illustration here. The next rule finds its justification in the same principle. CANON II.-The Server must accept the opportunity given within a reasonable time. unbiased mind. "To have a pun bursting out some five The reasonableness of this is apparent at once to the minutes after the occasion for it is passed is the most trying ordeal imaginable."—Hood. The next canon is founded upon that necessity for a just proportion, which is a corner stone in the architectonic of all the fine arts. CANON III.-The pun must invariably be of as high an order as the average of the listeners present can ample of the student who asks another if he is sick, (the appreciate. answer being "sic sum", so I am) it is Polyglot, Pure, This is the last canon which I shall lay down in this | Simple, Oral, Rational. So its symbol is BEDOU. An paper. Its application is very extensive For instance, example of the written pun is that concerning the difa company of wits will not endure the same kind of ference between a homicide and a pun; the answer bepun that would delight a political meeting. This the ing based on the equivocation between manslaughter artist must take into consideration.. For a popular which is the first, and man'slaughter which is the obassembly he must lay on the colors with a large brush, ject of the second. It would be represented by AEDFG. so to speak. The niceties need not be observed;-such Of ordinary puns the highest order is AEIOU; and any as a perfect grammatical connection in both Primary variation from this normal form results in loss. and Secondary. But on the other hand the pun must As a mnemonic the following lines should be have a degree of obviousness which would be shocking carefully committed to memory: and odious in a drawing room.* Then too the higher lights, such as can be produced by the brilliant corruscations of triple and complex puns, would be a positive disadvantage in the popular assembly. The delicate beauties which grace a Rembrandt or Murillo canvas would be wasted on a Michael Angelo ceiling piece. Broad, full colors and a bold, free brush are best suited to such public occasions.† "Ashtomi, Etomi, Itom, Otone, Umi." The author has an incomparable method of memorizing puns without the aid of any of the "keys," "pegs," "links" or "tables" of "Mnemonics," which he will communicate on recept of $5.00. If a class of 350 be formed the author will kindly consent to sacrifice a day and take charge of it in person. While the letter I is sufficient for most purSuch are a few of the general principles on which poses, triple and quadruple puns can be more this science is founded. I trust that every novice may specifically represented where such nicety is appreciate them, and firmly decide to evolve himself required, by a small figure placed under the from the narrow bounds of Mrs. Partingtonianism (a letter. Probably the highest flight attainable by low form of verbal conceits, which among the unlet- human weakness is, or rather would be AEIOU. tered passes for punning) ‡ and strive earnestly upward Whether any such is in existence I know not. If any to a higher and nobler art-level. one of you should be so fortunate as to find one, a great favor would be conferred by forwarding it to the author, care of the REVIEW. I desired to speak a few words as to the best means of educating the youth in this science, but I fear that there will not be time; so I will merely add in conclusion a brief description of the simple yet perfect method of notation devised for the pun. The favorable qualities are represented by the five vowels of the alphabet, the unfavorable by the first five consonants. Thus: Complex, 1. Simple, D. Oral, 0. Written, F. Rational, U. Irrational, G. This department is to be devoted to keeping the readers of the REVIEW as well informed as may be of the doings of the great Educational World, of which we The letters admit of thirty-two combinations, but by form after all, but a small and comparatively insignifino means of equal merit or value. cant part. Nowadays it especially befits thoughtful people to mark well the signs of the times in matters Taking the pun I mentioned once before about the of education. These are days of improvement in methonion and the piano, it is Monoglot, Pure, Simple, Oral ods of instruction; of special courses and of fierce asand Irrational. Therefore its notation is AEDOG; de-saults upon time-honored systems. Even conservative cidedly a poor specimen. Or taking the familiar ex-ed with a degree, by her electives in College and SemOberlin by establishing the philosophical course crown EXAMPLE.-Near the end of the war our great national President made a public speech and was introduced with the question, "Why was he appropriately named?" the answer being, "Because he's Linkin' the North to the South." +Take the following example: Theodore Hood, the celebrated Improvisatore, challenged anyone of a company to give him a name on which he could not pun in verse. The name Rosenhagen was proposed as a settler. He at once composed: "My Muse! alas, she is tired, I fear me her spirit is gone. I'll rosin agen and go on!" Ingenious as it is, it would utterly fail of comprehension in a large, assembly. For example I heard an attractive young lady the other evening speak of a "dark, omnibus looking cloud." inary and by the English Theological course has recognized these tendencies. How far such changes are to be made with profit must be determined by experiment for the most part, and it is our privilege to watch such experimenting all about us. Methods of government in schools and colleges are profitable subjets for investigation, and the world of education is busily experimenting in this department Falso. We of Oberlin have always been a peculiar peoFaculty and Alumni as that of furnishing unlimited ple, but no peculiarity is so dear to the hearts of the number of young people of ample brain and brawn and opportunities to students of limited means. The actual on meagre material possessions is doubtless greater to-day made a choice of the site on the 7th inst., and decided than ever before, so that the problem of furnishing to begin building this fall. All the Archbishops and cheap educational advantages is still before us. How Bishops in the United States were made a committee are other schools meeting this question and how well on collections. The estimated expense of the entire do they meet it? These, too, are queries of importance work is $8,000,000 of which $700,000 is already raised. to those interested in matters of education. Eight millions is money enough to endow such an institution, but in the REVIEW's opinion no single denomination is broad enough to contain a true University. Read the Exchanges. to her endowment. list, please. We discover by inspecting our Exchanges that the average college paper is a pretty poor affair. We suppose they do too. There are more colleges in Illinois than in all Europe, but one European College has more students than all Illinois.-Exchange. Last year there were twenty-five philosophicals. This year there are seventy distributed as follows: Freshmen 36, Sophomore 22, Junior 10, Senior 2. The President of Harvard and the head cook at the Parker House, Boston, each receive $4,000 per annum. Beans and brains seem to be about on a par at the hub. Mr. Yan Phon Lee, who explained to the world through the North American Review, why he is not a heathen, graduated with high honors from Yale at the last Commencement. At the North Western University, prizes are offered to the young ladies, who shall excel first in regularity of attendance at the gymnasium, and, second, in proficiency in general gymnastics. It was the privilege of one of the editors to attend the annual school meeting in a township, not far from aries for the schools in the township, was quite excitedly Oberlin. A motion to purchase unabridged dictiondiscussed, and was lost by a tie vote because it seemed to the sage directors that it would sometime wear out, and on account of the quite prevalent sentiment that the teacher "ought to know something himself." The editor was not sure for some hours that this was the nineteenth century and enlightened America. NORTHFIELD SUMMER SCHOOL. Among the many experiences of the vacation just passed, there was one long to be remembered by the fortunate participants. During the first two weeks of July, four hundred college boys were gathered at Northfield, Mass., attending Moody's Summer School for Bible study. The buildings of the Young Ladies Seminary just north of Mr. Moody's home, were filled to over flowing, and a number of tents were pitched on deed were we to Mr. Moody for an opportunity to spend the higher grounds near the buildings. Grateful insuch profitable days in one of the most beautiful places in New England. Especially was this lovely spot in the valley of the Connecticut, appreciated by those who came from a region as level as northern Ohio. Here for twelve days were united in a most profitable manner, study and recreation. Regular and special meetings were so numerous that it was not uncommon for one to attend five a day. Thus were the forenoons and evenings occupied, and the afternoons were given to recreation. Swimming, tennis, base ball and rambles through the beautiful hills and glens of Northfield, formed a pleasant variety. Mr. Moody was of course the leading and animating spirit during those memorable days. As his helpers were such men as Professor Henry Drummond, from Edinburgh University, Scotland; Dr. Broadus, of Louisville, Ky.; Dr. Pierson, of Philadelphia; Dr. Trumbull, of New York; Joseph Cook, Dr. Hastings and Professor Townsend, of Boston; Mr. Oates, Secretary of the Glasgow, England. Y. M. C. A. and our It cost $1.50 per year to belong to the Harvard Co- College Secretaries, Willard and Ober. With such operative Society. The organization has been in exist-leaders the convention could not fail to be a grand sucence five years, has a store of its own, and last year did a business amounting to $37,000. What's become of ours? The Nineteenth Century of July has an article advocating the establishment of "Kitchen Colleges" in our great cities for the training of servants. Perhaps it never occurred to the Englishman who wrote it that such an education might be valuable to the persons who employ the servants. It is a good idea anyway. The wife of an officer in the United States Navy, VISited Oberlin last term, and also had an opportunity of seeing the students at Harvard, Williams, and one or two other eastern colleges. Her opinion was that the Oberlin boys were the finest looking lot of all. We shall henceforth advocate an increased appropriation for the Navy. The American Catholic University is the name of an Institution to be located at Washington. The Trustees cess. Perhaps a programme of one day's work may be Then |