To a Well-Connected Mouse | 31-12-2002 |
American writer, John Updike, has made the latest contribution to works inspired by the Bard with his poem, "To a Well-Connected Mouse", published in the January 6 2003 Issue of the New Yorker. Subtitled, "On reading of the genetic closeness between mice and men," the poem begins:
Wee, sleekit, cow'rin, tim'rous beastie,
Braw science says that at the leastie
We share full ninety-nine per cent
O' genes, where'er the odd ane went
Follow this link for the full text:
The poem touches on contemporary themes of genetics and human relations, demonstrating the power of Burns to resonate with the most contemporary audiences and subjects. Updike's treatment shows a fine wit and sensitivity to the language and spirit of Burns' work as well as a characteristic wry comment, on the eve of a probable war in the Middle East.
Burns' Mouse is not the first rodent that Updike has been inspired by. His essays on Disney's Mickey Mouse are a must-read for anybody interested in American culture
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Ayrshire Post Competition
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