Samuel Butler

Samuel Butler was an iconoclastic Victorian-era writer whose works were characterized by their satirical wit and commentary on society. He is best known for his utopian novel "Erewhon" and the semi-autobiographical "The Way of All Flesh." Butler's interests ranged widely, encompassing art, literature, and evolutionary theory. He questioned established norms and traditions, often facing criticism for his views. Despite this, his work has endured and he remains a significant figure in English literature.

December 4, 1835

June 18, 1902

English

Samuel Butler

Hypocrisy

    Hypocrisy will serve as well
To propagate a church, as zeal;
As persecution and promotion
Do equally advance devotion:
So round white stones will serve, they say,
As well as eggs to make hens lay.

Samuel Butler

Religion Of Hudibras, The

    For his religion it was fit
To match his learning and his wit:
'Twas Presbyterian true blue;
For he was of that stubborn crew
Of errant saints, whom all men grant
To be the true church militant;
Such as do build their faith upon
The holy text of pike and gun;
Decide all controversies by
Infallible artillery;
And prove their doctrine orthodox,
By apostolic blows and knocks;
Call fire, and sword, and desolation,
A godly, thorough reformation,
Which always must be carried on,
And still be doing, never done;
As if religion were intended
For nothing else but to be mended:
A sect whose chief devotion lies
In odd perverse antipathies;
In falling out with that or this,
And finding somewhat still amiss;
More peevish, cross, and splenet...

Samuel Butler

Smatterers

    All smatterers are more brisk and pert
Than those that understand an art;
As little sparkles shine more bright
Than glowing coals, that give them light.

Samuel Butler