Some people are of the decided opinion that this generation of Americans have become decidedly uncouth. We should show our leaders respect, these individuals believe, and they are certain there was a purer time when society did not ridicule politicians like we do today.
How about the 1700s?
Tom Mullinex and Dick – by Jonathan Swift (1667-1745)
(Dick is Richard Tighe, a member of Irish parliament, and a Whig. Swift leaned towards Tory. Tom Mullinex was a half-crazed begger. That’s all you need to know.)
Tom and Dick had equal fame,
And both had equal knowledge;
Tom could write and spell his name,
But Dick had seen a college.
Dick a coxcomb, Tom was mad,
And both alike diverting,
Tom was held the merrier lad,
But Dick the best at farting.
Dick would cock his nose in scorn,
But Tom was kind and loving;
Tom a footboy bread and born,
But Dick was from an oven.
Dick could neatly dance a jig,
But Tom was best at borees;
Tom would pray for every Whig,
And Dick curse all the Tories.
Dick would make a woeful noise,
And scold at an election;
Tom huzza’d the blackguard boys,
And held them in subjection.
Tom could move with lordly grace,
Dick nimbly skip the gutter;
Tom could talk with solemn face,
But Dick could better sputter.
Dick was come to high renown
Since he commenced physician;
Tom was held by all the town
The deeper politician.
Tom had the genteeler swing,
His hat could nicely put on;
Dick knew better how to swing
His cane upon a button.
Dick for repartee was fit,
And Tom for deep discerning;
Dick was thought the brighter wit,
But Tom had better learning.
Dick with zealous no’s and aye’s,
Could roar as loud as Stentor;
In the House ’tis all he says;
But Tom is eloquenter.
Next time someone talks to you about showing respect to politicians, laugh in their face.