Kevin DiBacco's "Limericks: History, Humor, and How-To" presents a thorough examination of the limerick as both an art form and practical tool. The book traces the evolution of these five-line verses from their medieval monastic roots through Irish pub culture, Victorian refinement under Edward Lear, and into the digital age.
The guide is structured to serve multiple audiences, from educators to professional writers to casual enthusiasts. It begins with fundamental instruction in limerick construction, including rhythm, rhyme schemes, and structural requirements, before expanding into specialized applications. The book showcases how limericks can enhance learning across disciplines, from mathematics and science to language and history.
Particularly notable is the book's exploration of modern applications, including professional settings, social media, and digital platforms. It features extensive examples across various themes, from seasonal and holiday verses to occupation-specific limericks for different professions. Regional variations and cultural adaptations demonstrate the form's global reach and versatility.
The work concludes with a forward-looking perspective on how limericks might evolve with new technologies while maintaining their essential characteristics of wit, brevity, and memorable rhythm.
KEYWORDS:
1. Verse Form
2. Educational Poetry
3. Literary History
4. Creative Writing
5. Cultural Traditions
