Gunning for Seuss

Summary

The article discusses the controversy surrounding the decision to cease publication of several books by Dr. Seuss due to perceived racial insensitivity, while also highlighting the continued availability of many of his beloved works.

Abstract

The piece, titled "Gunning for Seuss," addresses the recent move by Dr. Seuss Enterprises to discontinue a number of the author's books, framing it as a "product recall" rather than a ban. Despite the action, the article emphasizes that many of Seuss's cherished books, including "Green Eggs and Ham," "The Cat in the Hat," and "The Lorax," remain in circulation. The author reflects on the irony of the decision coinciding with the author's birthday and points out the enduring popularity and cultural significance of Seuss's books, questioning whether the removal of certain titles is justified. The article also touches on the debate over censorship and the importance of context in interpreting literature.

Opinions

The author suggests that the decision to stop publishing certain Dr. Seuss books is akin to "gunning for Geisel," indicating a strong stance against the move.
The article implies that the term "product recall" is a euphemism for censorship, challenging the foundation's characterization of the decision.
It is noted that the discontinuation of some titles occurs on Dr. Seuss's birthday, which is seen as particularly disrespectful or ironic.
The piece expresses that while some books are being removed, many of Dr. Seuss's classics continue to be available and beloved, suggesting a mixed reaction to the foundation's actions.
There is a hint of sarcasm in the mention of "environmental delight" regarding "The Lorax," which survived the recent content purge.
The author seems to lament the potential loss of other titles, questioning which book will be targeted next and expressing concern over the extent of the removals.
The article concludes with a reflection on the humor in Dr. Seuss's work, acknowledging that while some content may be outdated, it does not necessarily warrant the books being taken out of print.

An Ode to the good Dr.

The Foundation says It’s a “product recall” Don’t call it a banning It’s not that at all

A Dr he wasn’t So they’ve picked up their rifles Though loved by children They’re gunning for Geisel

This isn’t censorship So don’t have a cow We’ll say this once more ‘Marvin K. Mooney, Will You Please Go Now’

Like so many before Like ‘Thidwick the Big-Hearted Moose’ On the doc’s birthday, no less They’re cooking his goose

‘And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street’? Sorry Theodor Quoth the Raven Your book’s Nevermore

A few classics survive Like ‘Green Eggs and Ham’ The censors will say “Don’t worry, Ma’am”

Or the most famous of all ‘The Cat in the Hat’ Keep reading, kids He lived through this spat

And we can still cheer In environmental delight For the book, ‘The Lorax’ Survived this last fight

‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas!’? I do not know Apologies Mr Seuss It was too long ago

‘One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish’ Which will be next? What poppycock tish

‘Hop on Pop’? Not in this shop ‘Fox in Socks’? This book still rocks

‘Oh, the Places You’ll Go!’ and ‘Oh, the Thinks You Can Think!’ Keep reading to your children Despite all this stink

Read books such as ‘Horton Hears a Who!’ Will the elephant live on Or will he be glue

Or ‘What Pet Should I Get?’ That question’s eternal Perhaps read a book Like ‘Yertle the Turtle’

‘There’s a Wocket in My Pocket’? Um… oh dear

Now I understand Speech impediments aren’t funny But should it be canned?

Though this poet didn’t know it He swore somewhere in that But if you do find it Keep it under your hat

Humour

Gunning for Seuss

An Ode to the good Dr.