"Carpenter" and O. Henry's "The Cop and the Anthem" both eloquently depict the cultural and historical contexts of their creators. Written during Queen Victoria's reign, Carroll's poem reflects the moral complexity and industrial progress of the time while capturing the playful and frequently absurd spirit of children's literature. In contrast, O. Henry, who wrote in early 20th-century America, emphasizes the hardships of individuals in a rapidly modernizing society by employing a more realistic and sardonic tone.
Carroll’s imaginative imagery and playful language reflect the Victorian concern with creativity and morality. In the poem, for example, the Walrus and the Carpenter invite the oysters to take a stroll, and the Walrus announces, "The time has come."
On the other hand, O. Henry's language in "The Cop and the Anthem" is filled with irony and realism. Through the inner monologue of the main character, Soapy, we encounter the despair of the homeless. O. Henry's description—"He was a man with a great many vague thoughts and a very small mind"—perfectly captures Soapy's predicament in the busy but indifferent city of New York. The urban backdrop of the story structures themes of survival and the often brutal nature of social change. The story is rife with irony, especially as Soapy's attempts to get arrested continually fail.
While O. Henry's text clearly illustrates the harsh realities of societal changes, Carroll's language delights through humor and satire beneath a veneer of innocence. Despite their different historical contexts, the contrasts between England and America also highlight how their respective cultures evolved over time. Ultimately, despite employing vastly different styles, both authors compel readers to reflect on the effects of cultural transformation in their societies.
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