Caution Quote by Russell Baker
“Caution: These verses may be hazardous to your solemnity.”
About This Quote
Source Column: The New Yorker, 1975
The warning humorously alerts readers that the verses might disturb their serious mood, implying a playful, possibly subversive tone.
In simple terms: Verses could upset a serious mood.
Key Takeaway
Expect humor that challenges solemnity.
Themes
humor
warning
literature
Mood
playful
lighthearted
Type
satirical
entertaining
When to use this quote
- poetry readings
- literary festivals
- creative writing classes
- social media posts
Key Concepts
satire
tone management
Questions to Reflect On
- How does humor affect seriousness?
- When is a warning effective?
A Different Perspective
Humor may not resonate with all audiences.
![“[D]on't grow old. With age comes caution, which is another name for cowardice… Whatever else you do in life, don't cultivate a conscience. Without a conscience a man may never be said to grow old. This is an age of very old young men.” quote by Hesketh Pearson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/076/hesketh-pearson-35291_age_d-on-t-grow-old-with-age-comes-caution-w_14010.jpg)
![“[U]se extreme caution, and please remember that 451 degrees Fahrenheit is more than just a book a title…” quote by Ammon Shea](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/361/ammon-shea-38017_books_u-se-extreme-caution-and-please-remember_36287.jpg)
