Poetry · Chapter
A. F. Brockman explained
A brief poetic tribute to A.
What happens
A brief poetic tribute to A. F. Brockman, a department manager at The Fair in Chicago, highlighting his integrity and consistency in both golf and business.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because the speaker confronts the painful realization that his child’s lov…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Work and Profession
The poem celebrates Brockman's professional dedication and ethical approach to business.
- Humor and Satire
The light, rhyming verse gently contrasts Brockman's straight path with others who 'can't seem to go straight or aim true.'
Characters to notice
- Unknown Narrator
The narrator offers a concise, admiring portrait of Brockman.
Key passages
“Some guys—we’ve all met quite a few— Can’t seem to go straight or aim true. “Brock” doesn’t play their way; He sticks to the Fair way In golf and in business, too.”
Many people are dishonest or unreliable, but Brockman remains honest and consistent in both his sport and his work.
The poem uses a golf metaphor to praise Brockman's integrity.
