Paul Revere, by John Singleton Copley
This Mister Copley’s such a famous painter. I’m impressed.
Can you smell the turpentine? It’s something I detest.
Ah, well, I’ll be immortalized In oil, so I’ll be brave.
I hope he doesn’t notice that I quite forgot to shave.
A fellow wants to look his best and wear his whitest shirt
And keep his vest from being stained with crumbs from his dessert
His fingers mustn’t smudge the shine On what he will engrave.
But look at me! I can’t believe that I forgot to shave!
I’m sweating here with my tea pot, And on a close inspection –
My fingers! Look! They’re coming off! Oh, wait – it’s a reflection…
But hold your horses! I’m not scared Of some young Tory gent!
For I’m a bold and an honest Whig, Here by my own consent.
Though I’m a Son of Liberty, I will not misbehave.
Is my face red! I can’t believe that I forgot to shave!
Is my face red! I can’t believe that I forgot to shave!
