Cowper, William

The Diverting History of John Gilpin Showing How He Went Farther Than He Intended, and Came Safe Home Again

John Gilpin plans a holiday outing with his wife and family to Edmonton, but the day quickly goes off course. First he is delayed by customers, then his horse bolts, carrying him far beyond the intended destination. Along the way he loses his hat, wig, and wine, while bystanders, turnpike men, and even a postboy join the confusion. At last he reaches his friend the calender’s house, then is sent on again and finally returns home after a wild, comic ride. The poem keeps its playful, exaggerated humor throughout and ends by celebrating the joke rather than the mishap.