Words of Wisdom

Date: June 4, 1977. Place: Lake Forest College. Event: Commencement. The principal address, by Dr. Seuss (Theodor Geisel '25), went like this:

It seems to be behooven upon me to bring forth Great Words of Wisdom to this graduating class as it leaves these cloistered halls to enter the Outside World beyond.

Fortunately for you of the graduating class, my wisdom is in very short supply. And I have managed to condense everything I know into an epic poem consisting of 14 lines.

If I can find it under this underwear, I will read it quickly and then sit down.

The Epic Poem is entitled:

MY UNCLE TERWILLIGER ON THE ART OF EATING POPOVERS

My uncle ordered popoversfrom the restaurant's bill of fare.And, when they were served, he regardedthemwith a penetrating stare...Then he spoke great Words of Wisdomas he sat there on that chair:"To eat these things," said my uncle,"You must exercise great care.You may swallow down what's solid...BUT. . . you must spit out the air!" * * * And ... as you partake of the world's billof fare,that's darned good advice to follow.Do a lot of spitting out the hot air.A nd be careful what you swallow.