July 10th marks National Clerihew Day in the United States, dedicated to celebrating the unique poem style invented by Edmund Clerihew Bentley. The Clerihew poem, known for its whimsical and four-line structure, is a fun way to express humor and creativity in verse. It's a day to explore this distinctive poetic form and let creativity flow!

History and Background

• Establishment: National Clerihew Day is celebrated on July 10th, which is the birthday of Edmund Clerihew Bentley, the inventor of the clerihew. Bentley was an English writer and humorist born on July 10, 1875.
• Purpose: The day aims to celebrate the clerihew, encourage people to write their own clerihews, and appreciate the wit and humor that this poetic form brings.

What is a Clerihew?

A clerihew is a four-line biographical poem that follows a specific format and rhyme scheme. It is intended to be humorous and often pokes fun at its subject. The characteristics of a clerihew are:

1. Four Lines: The poem consists of four lines.
2. AABB Rhyme Scheme: The first and second lines rhyme with each other, and the third and fourth lines rhyme with each other.
3. Biographical: The poem usually includes a person's name in the first line and offers a brief, humorous take on their life or personality.
4. Irregular Meter: Clerihews do not follow a strict meter, allowing for a conversational and often whimsical tone.

Example of a Clerihew

Here’s an example of a classic clerihew by Edmund Clerihew Bentley:

Sir Christopher Wren

Said, "I am going to dine with some men.

If anybody calls,

Say I am designing St. Paul's."

Celebrations and Activities

National Clerihew Day is celebrated with various activities that encourage creativity and humor:

1. Writing Clerihews: Writing your own clerihews about famous people, friends, family, or even fictional characters.
2. Clerihew Contests: Participating in or organizing clerihew writing contests at schools, libraries, or online platforms.
3. Reading and Sharing: Reading clerihews written by Edmund Clerihew Bentley and other poets, and sharing your creations on social media using hashtags like #ClerihewDay and #NationalClerihewDay.
4. Classroom Activities: Teachers can introduce students to clerihews and encourage them to write their own as a fun literary exercise.
5. Creative Workshops: Hosting or attending workshops focused on writing humorous poetry, including clerihews.

How to Celebrate

1. Write a Clerihew: Try your hand at writing a clerihew about a famous person, a friend, or even yourself. Remember to keep it humorous and playful.
2. Share Your Poem: Share your clerihew on social media or with friends and family. Use the hashtags #ClerihewDay and #NationalClerihewDay to connect with others celebrating the day.
3. Read Bentley’s Works: Explore the works of Edmund Clerihew Bentley and read some of his classic clerihews.
4. Participate in a Contest: Join a clerihew writing contest, either locally or online, to test your creative skills.
5. Teach Others: Introduce the concept of clerihews to others, especially children, and encourage them to write their own.

Significance of National Clerihew Day

National Clerihew Day is significant because it celebrates a unique form of poetry that combines humor, creativity, and biography. By highlighting clerihews, the observance encourages literary creativity and appreciation for a lesser-known poetic form.

The day also fosters a sense of fun and playfulness, as people engage in writing and sharing humorous poems. Through writing clerihews, participating in contests, and sharing their work, individuals can connect with others and enjoy the lighthearted nature of this poetic tradition.

Overall, National Clerihew Day honors the legacy of Edmund Clerihew Bentley and promotes the joy of writing and reading humorous poetry.