"Excelsior"

Name: "Excelsior"
Author: Bret Harte

A compact assortment of witty poems that satirize commercial hype and provincial manners through brisk, rhymed sketches. Several pieces follow a persistent canvasser who emblazons a single product name across fences, shops, and scenic heights, using repetition and domestic detail to expose consumer absurdities. The poems shift between playful soundplay and dry observation, turning small-town encounters, household objects, and public spectacles into occasions for ironic commentary. Overall the volume relies on lively meter and local color to deliver short, pointed reflections on vanity, persuasion, and the everyday effects of advertising.

By Bret Harte

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About the Author

Bret Harte

Bret Harte (1836-1902) was an American author and poet known for his vivid depictions of life in the American West during the Gold Rush era. His works often explore themes of adventure, morality, and the complexities of human nature. Harte gained prominence with his short stories, particularly "The Luck of Roaring Camp" and "The Outcasts of Poker Flat," which showcase his ability to blend humor and pathos. His writing is characterized by a keen observation of character and a rich, descriptive style. In addition to his short stories, Harte wrote novels such as "A Millionaire of Rough-and-Ready" and "A Ward of the Golden Gate," contributing significantly to the literary heritage of the American frontier.