A Ballade of Suicide


Read by LibriVox Volunteers

(4.2 stars; 4 reviews)

A Ballade of Suicide is a thought-provoking poem by G. K. Chesterton that delves into the complexities of life and death with a unique blend of humor and philosophy. Through a series of witty verses, Chesterton explores the notion of suicide, challenging conventional views and inviting readers to reflect on the value of existence.

Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century thought, this work showcases Chesterton's signature style, characterized by paradox and clever wordplay. He deftly navigates the serious subject matter with a light touch, prompting listeners to consider deeper existential questions while also finding amusement in the absurdities of life.

Chesterton, often referred to as the "prince of paradox," uses this poem to engage with themes of despair and hope, making it a distinctive piece in the realm of philosophical poetry. His ability to turn proverbs and common beliefs on their head invites a fresh perspective on the human condition, making this work both entertaining and intellectually stimulating.

Chapters

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A Ballade of Suicide - Read by ALP 1:55 Read by Algy Pug
A Ballade of Suicide - Ready By CMP 2:24 Read by CaprishaPage
A Ballade of Suicide - Read by DL 2:05 Read by David Lawrence
A Ballade of Suicide - Sung by EZWA 3:39 Read by Ezwa
A Ballade of Suicide - Read by FS 2:24 Read by fshort
A Ballade of Suicide - Read by GC 1:42 Read by Snapdragon
A Ballade of Suicide - Read by JCM 2:04 Read by Jason Mills
A Ballade of Suicide - Read by JL 1:47 Read by April Gonzales
A Ballade of Suicide - Read by JM2 2:03 Read by Jannie Meisberger
A Ballade of Suicide - Read by JN 1:32 Read by Julia Niedermaier
A Ballade of Suicide - Read by LAH 1:48 Read by Lee Ann Howlett
A Ballade of Suicide - Read by LLW 2:15 Read by Leonard Wilson (1930-2024)
A Ballade of Suicide - Read by MG 2:25 Read by Martin Geeson
A Ballade of Suicide - Read by MJF 2:22 Read by MJ Franck
A Ballade of Suicide - Read by REF 2:06 Read by Rhonda Federman
A Ballade of Suicide - Read by RH 1:56 Read by Rhajimas Holmes
A Ballade of Suicide - Read by RN 2:26 Read by ravenotation
A Ballade of Suicide - Read by UM 1:54 Read by ekzemplaro

Reviews

Darkly humorous short poem


(4 stars)

This is a difficult poem to interpret with sense- stresses in the wrong places, for instance, quickly render parts of the rhyme confusing or meaningless. It is arch, which can be hard to convey. I recommend the readings by MG and LLW. One reader has put the poem to music- for which I give her much credit for the effort involved. I'm not sure it's appropriate for this poem, however. I don't think the line "Perhaps the rector's mother will not come" was ever meant to be sung. Amusing and odd poem.