# Work and Profession in Poetry

> Theme guide for Poetry by Ring Lardner.

A significant portion of the book consists of short, witty poems about specific individuals and their occupations, highlighting the quirks and challenges of various jobs in early 20th-century Chicago.

## Where it surfaces

- [In the Wake of the News](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/in-the-wake-of-the-news): The narrator reflects on the demands of his job as a columnist, including the pressure to produce daily content and the challenges of writing under deadline.
- [A Split Century](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/a-split-century): The umpire's decisive call and the batter's silent acceptance highlight the professional roles and pressures in baseball.
- [Monday](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/monday): The narrator discusses the boss's decision to give him one day off from the demanding task of writing the Wake, highlighting the balance between work and rest.
- [Come On, You Roseate Day!](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/come-on-you-roseate-day): The poem emphasizes the relentless nature of creative work, urging the writer to keep producing and never rest on past achievements.
- [This Afternoon](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/this-afternoon): The narrator's lament about being forced to stay 'or get canned' highlights the theme of work obligations overriding personal comfort.
- [To the Man Higher Up](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/to-the-man-higher-up): The poem centers on the narrator's work habits and the conditions affecting his writing quality.
- [First Aid](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/first-aid): The narrator's craft of writing poetry is highlighted, showing the practical tools and frustrations of the trade.
- [Valentines](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/valentines): Each poem highlights a different newspaper role, from rewrite man to cashier, reflecting workplace dynamics.
- [His Favorite Role](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/his-favorite-role): The central focus is on the role of a garbage man, contrasting humble labor with more glamorous professions, and exploring the value and meaning of work.
- [Regular Fellows I Have Met](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/regular-fellows-i-have-met): Each sketch centers on the individual's occupation, from lawyer and banker to restaurateur and baseball club president.
- [Lawrence R. Adams](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/lawrence-r-adams): Adams reflects on the measure of success in the hotel business through guest loyalty.
- [B. F. Affleck](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/b-f-affleck): The poem reflects a professional's perspective on how poor roads benefit the cement industry.
- [Geo. S. Albaugh](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/geo-s-albaugh): Geo. S. Albaugh is identified as a manufacturer, linking his identity to his profession.
- [Col. Bion J. Arnold](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/col-bion-j-arnold): The chapter celebrates Bion J. Arnold's professional identity as an engineer and his wartime contributions.
- [Nathan Ascher](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/nathan-ascher): References Nathan Ascher's role as a movie exhibitor and his professional output of building playhouses.
- [Phil DeC. Ball](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/phil-dec-ball): Highlights Phil DeC. Ball's role as a baseball club owner, tying identity to profession.
- [Jas. A. Ballard](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/jas-a-ballard): References the roles of sales manager and coal supplier in a professional transaction.
- [F. L. Bateman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/f-l-bateman): The poem highlights Bateman's role as a freight company president, emphasizing professional identity.
- [Richard Beamish](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/richard-beamish): The chapter highlights the demanding nature of editorial work, juxtaposed with labor activism for reduced hours.
- [Ross J. Beatty](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/ross-j-beatty): The chapter celebrates Ross J. Beatty's professional identity as a steel manufacturer and his skill in his craft.
- [H. H. Blum](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/h-h-blum): Highlights the profession of a women's wear dealer and the art of salesmanship.
- [Ralph Bradley](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/ralph-bradley): Ralph Bradley's role as General Counsel and his use of a boss-provided pass highlight professional life and its perks.
- [F. A. Brewer](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/f-a-brewer): F. A. Brewer is identified as an investment banker, linking his profession to the playful anecdote.
- [Col. Benj. G. Brinkman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/col-benj-g-brinkman): Highlights Brinkman's roles as a banker and chairman of the St. Louis Cardinals board.
- [A. F. Brockman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/a-f-brockman): The poem celebrates Brockman's professional dedication and ethical approach to business.
- [John E. Bruce](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/john-e-bruce): Focuses on John E. Bruce's identity as a lawyer and his professional success.
- [Col. Geo. T. Buckingham](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/col-geo-t-buckingham): The chapter highlights Buckingham's professional identity as a lawyer and his specialized legal knowledge.
- [Eugene Byfield](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/eugene-byfield): The poem contrasts the rough sport of polo with the demanding job of managing a hotel.
- [Geo. B. Caldwell](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/geo-b-caldwell): Highlights the professional role of Geo. B. Caldwell as a company president, juxtaposed with his personal obsession.
- [Edward B. Carson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/edward-b-carson): Highlights Edward B. Carson's role as a petroleum company president and the high-stakes nature of his business.
- [Philip R. Clarke](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/philip-r-clarke): Philip R. Clarke is identified by his professional role as president of a securities corporation.
- [Frank R. Coates](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/frank-r-coates): Frank R. Coates is recognized for his professional role as a utility company president, highlighting the impact of his work on daily life.
- [Charles A. Comiskey](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/charles-a-comiskey): The limerick highlights Charles A. Comiskey's professional role as president of the White Sox, emphasizing his good heart and character in his work.
- [J. T. Connery](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/j-t-connery): J. T. Connery's dual role as a coal man and hotel president highlights his professional endeavors.
- [David Copland](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/david-copland): David Copland is identified by his corporate title, grounding the humor in his professional identity.
- [F. A. Cotharin](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/f-a-cotharin): Highlights the insurance salesman's profession and the transactional relationship with a customer.
- [Thos. Cusack](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/thos-cusack): The chapter highlights the profession of sign painting and its impact on the city's appearance.
- [Charles H. Dean](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/charles-h-dean): The chapter highlights Charles H. Dean's profession as a sporting goods manufacturer and his integral role in the athletic world.
- [P. L. Deutsch](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/p-l-deutsch): P. L. Deutsch is identified by his professional role as assistant secretary at a company.
- [John B. De Voney](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/john-b-de-voney): The chapter humorously depicts the real estate profession and the art of persuasion through storytelling.
- [J. W Douglass](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/j-w-douglass): The limerick humorously contrasts the stock broker's professional duties with his personal desire to fish.
- [George B. Dryden](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/george-b-dryden): The chapter celebrates Dryden's professional success as president of a rubber company.
- [Harry W. Dubiske](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/harry-w-dubiske): The chapter focuses on Harry W. Dubiske's profession as an investment banker and teacher of salesmanship.
- [Robert J. Dunham](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/robert-j-dunham): Highlights the professional roles of Robert J. Dunham as a corporate executive and the implied work of newspaper critics.
- [J. C. Dunn](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/j-c-dunn): J. C. Dunn is identified as a railroad contractor and president of the Cleveland Indians, highlighting his professional roles.
- [Clarence A. Earl](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/clarence-a-earl): Clarence A. Earl is depicted as a hardworking automobile manufacturer whose efforts have paid off.
- [Col. Chas. H. Ebbets](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/col-chas-h-ebbets): Highlights Ebbets' professional role and his imagined relentless dedication to baseball.
- [Wm. G. Edens](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/wm-g-edens): Wm. G. Edens is identified as a banker and association president, highlighting his professional role in road improvement.
- [Howard Elting](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/howard-elting): The poem references Howard Elting's role as a paint manufacturer in Chicago.
- [Victor Elting](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/victor-elting): Victor Elting is identified as a lawyer, grounding the whimsical poem in a professional identity.
- [Uriah S. Epperson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/uriah-s-epperson): Uriah S. Epperson is defined by his role as president of a land and investment company, with his professional identity central to the chapter.
- [Samuel A. Ettelson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/samuel-a-ettelson): Highlights Ettelson's professional role as Corporation Counsel and his reputation as a legal adviser.
- [Chas. (Chick) Evans](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/chas-chick-evans): The chapter touches on the professional identity of Chick Evans as a golfer and writer, and the narrator's own implied skill in the sport.
- [John Fletcher](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/john-fletcher): The poem challenges the assumption that banking is an easy job, highlighting the hidden burdens of professional life.
- [Herman Friestedt](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/herman-friestedt): Herman Friestedt is recognized for his professional work as a contractor building military cantonments.
- [Harry R. Gibbons](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/harry-r-gibbons): Gibbons is identified by his role as County Treasurer, emphasizing his professional identity and political work.
- [William A. (Kid) Gleason](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/william-a-kid-gleason): The poem centers on Gleason's professional role as a baseball manager and the value placed on his expertise.
- [George Golde](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/george-golde): Focuses on George Golde's occupation as a merchant and his interactions with salesmen.
- [Lelan O. Green](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/lelan-o-green): Highlights the unusual combination of dentistry and musicianship.
- [Bennett Griffin](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/bennett-griffin): Bennett Griffin's profession as an insurance man is central to the chapter.
- [George F. Harding](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/george-f-harding): The chapter underscores the burdens and challenges of a public office, specifically the comptroller's role in managing city finances and labor demands.
- [John P. Harding](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/john-p-harding): The chapter highlights the demanding life of a hotel operator, yet shows how one can still find leisure.
- [C. M. Harpster](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/c-m-harpster): Highlights the professional skill and reputation of a surgeon.
- [Wells W. Hawtin](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/wells-w-hawtin): The chapter highlights Wells W. Hawtin's role as a business president and his professional advocacy for mail advertising.
- [Dan Hayes, Jr.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/dan-hayes-jr): Dan Hayes, Jr. is identified by his occupations: real estate and breeder of harness race horses.
- [Wm. J. Healy](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/wm-j-healy): Highlights the professional identity of Wm. J. Healy as a Sanitary District trustee and his dedication to his work.
- [Charles Herendeen](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/charles-herendeen): Charles Herendeen is identified as a flour manufacturer, linking his identity to his profession.
- [Peter M. Hoffman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/peter-m-hoffman): Peter M. Hoffman's role as coroner is central to the limerick's dark humor.
- [Woodward Holmes](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/woodward-holmes): The chapter highlights the tailor's craft and professional service.
- [Thomas D. Huff](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/thomas-d-huff): Highlights the professional life of a lawyer, Thomas D. Huff, and the playful interaction with his clients.
- [G. J. L. Janes](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/g-j-l-janes): The chapter highlights Janes's dual professional roles as general manager of a store and boss of a golf club.
- [Ban B. Johnson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/ban-b-johnson): Highlights Ban B. Johnson's profession as a baseball magnate and his leadership in the sport.
- [Walter Clyde Jones](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/walter-clyde-jones): The limerick focuses on Jonesey's occupation as a patent lawyer and the peculiar challenges of his work.
- [S. R. Kaufman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/s-r-kaufman): The poem highlights the professional pride of a hotel president in hosting famous guests.
- [John H. Kirby](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/john-h-kirby): Kirby's identity as a capitalist and his profession in lumber investments are central to the verse.
- [Charles Kratsch](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/charles-kratsch): Focuses on Charles Kratsch's role as an ignition expert, highlighting his specialized skill in diagnosing car troubles.
- [Sigmund Lawton](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/sigmund-lawton): Sigmund Lawton is identified as a broker, linking his identity to his profession.
- [James Levy](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/james-levy): James Levy's career shift from bicycle racer to dealer of automobiles and airplanes reflects professional evolution tied to technological change.
- [Adolph Linick](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/adolph-linick): Linick's profession as a theater owner is central to the poem.
- [C. L. Maguire](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/c-l-maguire): Maguire's arduous toil of vending oil is contrasted with his leisure activity.
- [Jno. W. Maguire](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/jno-w-maguire): Highlights Maguire's role as a vice president and general manager in the rubber industry.
- [F. J. Manton](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/f-j-manton): F. J. Manton is identified as a merchant, but his professional focus is humorously overshadowed by his sports mania.
- [Clayton Mark](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/clayton-mark): The chapter highlights Clayton Mark's identity as a steel manufacturer and his dedication to his work, even at odd hours.
- [Oscar F. Mayer](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/oscar-f-mayer): Highlights Oscar F. Mayer's identity as a packer and his practical approach to his work.
- [M. DeWitt McAlpine](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/m-dewitt-mcalpine): McAlpine is identified by his professional role as Vice-President of Bradner Smith & Co., tying his identity to his career.
- [Chas. A. McCulloch](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/chas-a-mcculloch): The poem celebrates a manager's positive influence on workplace morale.
- [Jas. C. McGill](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/jas-c-mcgill): Highlights Jas. C. McGill's role as a baseball team president, linking his professional identity to family legacy and team performance.
- [C. R. McKay](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/c-r-mckay): McKay's role at the Federal Reserve is presented as a prestigious but confining job, set against the desire for a more relaxed, non-professional existence.
- [John J. Meagher](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/john-j-meagher): John J. Meagher is identified as a stock broker, highlighting his professional identity.
- [Joseph Michaels](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/joseph-michaels): Joseph Michaels is identified as an iron merchant, linking his professional identity to his leisure activity.
- [Amos C. Miller](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/amos-c-miller): The chapter highlights Amos C. Miller's career as a lawyer and his professional success.
- [Eugene C. Miller](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/eugene-c-miller): Eugene C. Miller's business in photo engraving is mentioned, contrasting with his personal desire for escape.
- [Jacob Miller](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/jacob-miller): The chapter highlights Jacob Miller's professional skill as a chef, emphasizing the admiration and loss felt by those who enjoyed his cooking.
- [Arthur J. Mitchell](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/arthur-j-mitchell): The poem highlights Mitchell's professional reliability in investments.
- [John J. Mitchell](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/john-j-mitchell): The limerick celebrates the professional growth and success of a banker and his bank.
- [Harry Moir](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/harry-moir): Harry Moir is identified as the proprietor of the Morrison Hotel, highlighting his professional role.
- [S. E. Moist](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/s-e-moist): S. E. Moist is identified as part of the Union Piano Co., highlighting his professional identity.
- [W. R. Moorhouse](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/w-r-moorhouse): W. R. Moorhouse is identified by his profession as an insurance man in Chicago, grounding the humor in his occupational identity.
- [Frank J. Navin](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/frank-j-navin): Frank J. Navin's role as president of the Detroit Baseball Club is central, highlighting his professional identity and hopes for the team.
- [W. G. Nicholson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/w-g-nicholson): Highlights the profession of banking and the lengths taken to protect financial institutions.
- [Col. L. M. Nicolson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/col-l-m-nicolson): The limerick highlights Col. Nicolson's role as an assistant to the president and his professional skill of 'lassoing the jack.'
- [Arthur A. Patterson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/arthur-a-patterson): The chapter highlights Arthur A. Patterson's business role in supplying academic regalia.
- [Ferdinand W. Peck](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/ferdinand-w-peck): Ferdinand W. Peck is identified as a capitalist, highlighting his professional role in Chicago's economic history.
- [Lt. Col. N. M. Percy](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/lt-col-n-m-percy): The limerick highlights the surgeon's professional skill and the gratitude of a patient, emphasizing the value of dedicated work in medicine.
- [C. S. Peterson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/c-s-peterson): Focuses on C. S. Peterson's role as president of a linotyping company and his professional quirks.
- [Charles Piez](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/charles-piez): Charles Piez's role as a business leader and shipbuilder during wartime.
- [Conrad H. Poppenhusen](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/conrad-h-poppenhusen): Highlights the professional skill and versatility of a lawyer who adapts his language to different settings.
- [Guy Bates Post](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/guy-bates-post): Focuses on the craft of acting and the distinction between skilled and unskilled performers.
- [Hanson F. Randle](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/hanson-f-randle): Hanson F. Randle is identified by his corporate title, Vice-President of Railways Ice Co., Chicago.
- [George W. Reed](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/george-w-reed): Highlights the disparity between the leisurely work of coal executives and the stressful financial burden on families.
- [Frank H. Reilly](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/frank-h-reilly): Frank Reilly is identified by his profession as a real estate man.
- [Harry J. Ridings](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/harry-j-ridings): Highlights the professional role of Harry J. Ridings as Western Manager and the impact of his potential retirement on the theatrical business.
- [J. J. Rosenthal](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/j-j-rosenthal): J. J. Rosenthal is identified by his role as manager of the Woods Theatre, highlighting his professional identity.
- [Joseph A. Rushton](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/joseph-a-rushton): Joseph A. Rushton is identified as a stock broker, contrasting his professional life with his leisure activity of fishing.
- [Peter J. Schaefer](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/peter-j-schaefer): The poem highlights Peter J. Schaefer's profession as a theatre owner and his distinctive business approach.
- [Capt. Orlando F. Scott](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/capt-orlando-f-scott): The poem highlights the professional role of Capt. Orlando F. Scott as a surgeon, emphasizing his skill in replacing lost body parts.
- [Benjamin Serlis](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/benjamin-serlis): Benjamin Serlis is identified with his role in investments, highlighting his professional identity.
- [Walden W. Shaw](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/walden-w-shaw): The poem celebrates Walden W. Shaw's professional identity as president of Yellow Cab Co. and his personal pursuits.
- [George W. Sheehan](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/george-w-sheehan): Highlights Sheehan's role as president of a sugar company and the ironic burden of his job.
- [James Simpson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/james-simpson): The chapter highlights James Simpson's role as a Vice President and his professional reliability.
- [Elliott G. Stevenson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/elliott-g-stevenson): The chapter highlights the professional identity of Elliott G. Stevenson as a lawyer, and references the inventor of the flivver, emphasizing the intersection of law and industry.
- [Col. R. W. Stewart](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/col-r-w-stewart): The poem celebrates Col. Stewart's professional rise in the oil industry, linking his academic efforts to his career success.
- [C. Pruyn Stringfield](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/c-pruyn-stringfield): The chapter centers on C. Pruyn Stringfield's identity as a physician, highlighting his professional reach and the demands of his practice.
- [J. M. Sullivan](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/j-m-sullivan): The chapter focuses on J. M. Sullivan's professional identity and his dedication to the paper bag business.
- [Edward J. Tobin](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/edward-j-tobin): The poem satirizes the idea of hard work in a vegetable garden as a means of developing 'human machines'.
- [Fred W. Upham](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/fred-w-upham): Upham's role as party treasurer is central, highlighting the professional and ethical compromises in political work.
- [Egbert Van Alstyne](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/egbert-van-alstyne): Egbert Van Alstyne's career as a songwriter is celebrated, emphasizing his creative output and professional success.
- [Henry Veeder](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/henry-veeder): Highlights the professional identity and skill of Henry Veeder as a lawyer, emphasizing the craft of legal writing and its impact on adversaries.
- [John Z. Vogelslang](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/john-z-vogelslang): John Z. Vogelslang's identity as a restaurateur and his entrepreneurial decision to open a hotel reflect themes of profession and business.
- [Wm. F. Von Sennet](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/wm-f-von-sennet): The subject is identified by his professional role as a department manager at Illinois Steel Co.
- [Charles H. Wacker](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/charles-h-wacker): Highlights Charles H. Wacker's professional role as the driving force behind the Chicago Plan.
- [John Wagner](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/john-wagner): The poem examines the financial viability of John Wagner's profession as a boxing promoter.
- [William M. Walker](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/william-m-walker): The poem centers on William M. Walker's occupation as a wholesale fish dealer.
- [Thos. J. Wall](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/thos-j-wall): The poem highlights Thos. J. Wall's professional role as General Agent of the C.P.R., and the speaker's willingness to accompany him on business or leisure trips.
- [Harry B. Wallace](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/harry-b-wallace): Harry B. Wallace's job as a diamond importer is mentioned, but his true happiness lies outside of work.
- [Augustus J. Wampler](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/augustus-j-wampler): Augustus J. Wampler is defined by his role as a department manager and his professional skill in securing contracts.
- [G. M. Weeks](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/g-m-weeks): G. M. Weeks is identified as a capitalist, highlighting his professional identity and the associated lifestyle.
- [John N. Weinand](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/john-n-weinand): The chapter celebrates John N. Weinand's professional integrity and steady approach to his work in the grain trade.
- [Albert G. Welsh](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/albert-g-welsh): Highlights the professional role of Albert G. Welsh as a lawyer and press committee chairman.
- [Guilford S. Wood](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/guilford-s-wood): The chapter focuses on Guilford S. Wood's occupation as a seller of railway supplies.
- [F. M. Zeiler](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/f-m-zeiler): The chapter centers on a stock broker and his professional behavior.
- [The Deterioration of Man](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/the-deterioration-of-man): References to men winning wealth and climbing to fame highlight themes of professional success and ambition.
- [Apology](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/apology): The narrator contrasts his playful activities with his neglected work, highlighting a tension between duty and distraction.
- [An Autobiography](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/an-autobiography): The narrator outlines his career path in journalism, moving from city to city and working for various newspapers, highlighting the professional journey.
- [To Producers, Authors, Actors, etc.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/to-producers-authors-actors-etc): The poem examines the profession of acting and play production, critiquing the business dynamics of show business.
- [List of Illustrations](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/list-of-illustrations): Many illustrations depict various professions, including politicians, baseball players, fishermen, hunters, and salesmen.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/themes/work_and_profession
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/themes