Hog-uration
Jan 12th, 2009 by MPC Press
With the pending U.S. presidential inauguration, our most recent title, “Rhyme” (A Pig in Politics), is attracting obvious attention. Stepping back, George Washington’s inauguration occured on April 30, 1789 in New York City, with Barack Obama, our 44th President, taking office 220 years later in Washington D.C. Since 1937 (the beginning of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 2nd term), the inauguration has taken place, as per the Twentieth Amendment, on January 20 (or January 21 when the 20th falls on a Sunday). The Constitution requires that the President takes an oath of office but Washington added a speech, which included recommending constitutional amendments to satisfy citizens demanding a Bill of Rights. This speech set a precedent and the inaugural address has become a rich part of American history.
The importance of speeches is vivid in “Rhyme” (A Pig in Politics), and in two of the seven speeches given by the character Rhyme, he mimics U.S. inaugural addresses. First, Rhyme refers to John F. Kennedy’s 1961 inaugural address (”Ask what you can do for Muck!”, P7) and later he references FDR’s first inaugural address in 1933 (”…we have nothing to fear! Yes I can hear…Each of your cries. Don’t worry, We’ll hurry, You all will have sties!”, P12).
We are not alone in terms of having a children’s book that helps boys and girls enjoy and understand the basics of politics. Take a look at “Duck for President” (although try not to notice the grammar on the home page of the website). This is a wonderful and amusing tale of Duck’s rise to political power followed by his return to the simple life (a reminder of Rhyme’s grass is always greener subtheme). The story is easy, educational, and fun, and as with many great children’s books, the use of repetition helps make the book memorable. (Rhyme’s ”Dirt Doesn’t Hurt” hopefully works in a similar fashion.)
Enjoy the week!
Is Rhyme going to the inauguration?
“You must be mistaken “they will” not serve bacon!”