How to Get On in Society by Sir John Betjeman
How to Get On in Society by Sir John Betjeman

How to Get On in Society

Sir-john-betjeman

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How to Get On in Society by Sir John Betjeman

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Sir-john-betjeman
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A 1958 satire on the mores of the upwardly-aspiring middle class, and particularly their distinctive vocabulary. England has always had a class-conscious society, and this poem provides a fascinating glimpse into little differences that would be quite imperceptible for outsiders. Nancy Mitford’s stu...

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How to Get On in Society Annotated

Phone for the fish knives, Norman
As cook is a little unnerved;
You kiddies have crumpled the serviettes
And I must have things daintily served.

Are the requisites all in the toilet?
The frills round the cutlets can wait
Till the girl has replenished the cruets
And switched on the logs in the grate.

It's ever so close in the lounge dear,
But the vestibule's comfy for tea
And Howard is riding on horseback
So do come and take some with me

Now here is a fork for your pastries
And do use the couch for your feet;
I know that I wanted to ask you-
Is trifle sufficient for sweet?

Milk and then just as it comes dear?
I'm afraid the preserve's full of stones;
Beg pardon, I'm soiling the doileys
With afternoon tea-cakes and scones.

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