Poetry · Chapter
XXXIII explained
A brief epitaph for George Perry, describing him as stiff and stark in death, with a dark heart and mind, yet skilled in his trade of being an ass.
What happens
A brief epitaph for George Perry, describing him as stiff and stark in death, with a dark heart and mind, yet skilled in his trade of being an ass.
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
The emotional and psychological peak occurs when the speaker’s obsessive pursuit of the divine rose fragrance…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Mortality and Regret
The epitaph reflects on George Perry's death and the darkness of his life.
Characters to notice
- George Perry
Subject of the epitaph; described as stiff, stark, dark-hearted, and skilled in being an ass.
Key passages
“George Perry here is stiff and stark, With stone at foot and stone at head.”
George Perry lies dead, buried with stones at his feet and head.
Describes his burial and death.
“He knew more ways to be an ass Than any ass that ever brayed.”
He was more skilled at being foolish than any other fool.
Criticizes his character with ironic praise.
