The Bab Ballads, with Which Are Included Songs of a Savoyard
By W. S. Gilbert
Length8h 40m
About this audiobook
In "The Bab Ballads, with Which Are Included Songs of a Savoyard," W. S. Gilbert presents a delightful collection of whimsical verse that masterfully combines satire, wit, and sharp social commentary. Gilbert's literary style is characterized by playful rhymes and an inventive use of meter, demonstrating his deep understanding of both the English language and theatricality. The ballads address various themes ranging from love and folly to the absurdities of Victorian society, creating a rich tapestry that reflects the cultural context of the late 19th century. As a precursor to his famed collaborations with Arthur Sullivan in comic opera, these works embody Gilbert's unique ability to merge humor with critique, inviting readers to both laugh and ponder the human condition. W. S. Gilbert was a prominent playwright, poet, and librettist whose keen observations of society informed much of his writing. Born in 1836, Gilbert's diverse career spanned roles as a legal writer and a naval officer, experiences that provided him with insight into the intricacies of human behavior and societal norms. His collaboration with Sullivan, which solidified his legacy in musical theatre, flourished from the same spirit evident in "The Bab Ballads," making this compilation a cornerstone of his early literary work. For readers who appreciate a blend of humor and insight, "The Bab Ballads" is a must-read. This collection not only showcases Gilbert's lyrical prowess but also serves as a reflection of the societal nuances of his time. Whether you're a fan of poetry, musical theatre, or Victorian literature, this book offers an engaging exploration that will resonate with lovers of clever wordplay and incisive commentary alike.
Audiobook details
Rating★★★★ 3.8 (148)
Includes Amazon, Goodreads
GenrePoetry
Length8 hrs 40 mins
Narrated byListen with 1,000+ voices
FormateBook with Audio
Publish dateJun 3, 2022
LanguageEnglish
Table of contents
1CAPTAIN REECE
26THE BAFFLED GRUMBLER
2THE DARNED MOUNSEER
27DISILLUSIONED
3THE RIVAL CURATES
28THE HOUSE OF PEERS
4THE ENGLISHMAN
29BABETTE'S LOVE
5ONLY A DANCING GIRL
30A MERRY MADRIGAL
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6THE DISAGREEABLE MAN
31TO MY BRIDE: (WHOEVER SHE MAY BE)
7GENERAL JOHN
32THE DUKE AND THE DUCHESS
8THE COMING BY-AND-BY
33THE FOLLY OF BROWN
9TO A LITTLE MAID
34EHEU FUGACES—!
10THE HIGHLY RESPECTABLE GONDOLIER
35SIR MACKLIN
11JOHN AND FREDDY
36THEY'LL NONE OF 'EM BE MISSED
12THE FAIRY QUEEN'S SONG
37THE YARN OF THE "NANCY BELL"
13SIR GUY THE CRUSADER
38GIRL GRADUATES
14IS LIFE A BOON
39THE BISHOP OF RUM-TI-FOO
15HAUNTED
40BRAID THE RAVEN HAIR
16THE MODERN MAJOR-GENERAL
41THE PRECOCIOUS BABY: A VERY TRUE TALE
17THE BISHOP AND THE 'BUSMAN
42THE WORKING MONARCH
18THE HEAVY DRAGOON
43TO PHŒBE
19THE TROUBADOUR
44THE APE AND THE LADY
20PROPER PRIDE
45BAINES CAREW, GENTLEMAN
21FERDINANDO AND ELVIRA OR, THE GENTLE PIEMAN
46ONLY ROSES
22PART I
47THOMAS WINTERBOTTOM HANCE
23PART II
48THE ROVER'S APOLOGY
24THE POLICEMAN'S LOT
49A DISCONTENTED SUGAR BROKER
25LORENZO DE LARDY
50AN APPEAL
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