The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
Page three
"A Hitchhiker's Guide to Surviving Vogon Poetry: An Ultimate
Overview"
-------
**Overview**
It is universally acknowledged that Vogon poetry is, without a shadow
of a doubt, the third worst in the universe. The very contemplation of
listening to this form of poetry has been known to induce a deep
existential dread in all but the stoutest of beings across the galaxy.
Below, we aim to educate the would-be traveler on the nuances of this
ghastly art form, so they may avoid inadvertent exposure or at the
very least be prepared for its assault on the senses.
**Origins**
The origins of Vogon poetry are as murky and displeasing as the verse
itself. The Vogons, primarily known across the galaxy for their
bureaucratic rigidity, inexplicable love for paperwork, and a
predisposition towards galactic development (which often involves
demolishing perfectly good planets), have also carved out an infamous
niche in the universe's cultural panorama with their poetry.
**Characteristics**
The hallmark of Vogon poetry is its brutal assault on syntax, meter,
and every known poetic technique. It is often characterized by the
following:
- **Pointless verbosity**: A never-ending barrage of words that, upon
closer inspection, might seem to imply deep existential quandaries but
more often result in the listener questioning their will to exist.
- **Ruthless disregard for rhyme or rhythm**: Any semblance of
structure in Vogon verse is purely coincidental and, some argue, a
sign of the poet's failure.
- **Unholy imagery**: Expect references to the Vogon's own bodily
functions, odors, or the color of their bureaucrat's uniforms, which
are as dull and oppressive as their poetry.
**Famous Works**
Among the most notorious works, we find "Ode to a Small Lump of
Green Putty I Found in My Armpit One Midsummer Morning" and
"My Favourite Bathtime Gurgles," both of which are capable
of inducing a comatose state in even the most resilient of listeners.
**Survival Tips**
If you ever find yourself in the unfortunate position of being
subjected to a live Vogon poetry recitation, here are some strategies
to preserve your sanity:
1. **Mental Disengagement**: Attempt to think about literally anything
else. Reciting the prime numbers backwards, planning your escape from
the Vogon ship, or pondering the ingredients of a Pan Galactic Gargle
Blaster are all viable strategies.
2. **Physical Preparedness**: Earplugs may offer some defense, though
the sheer force of Vogon oratory has been known to render them
ineffective. Mental fortitude and a strong stomach are your best
allies.
3. **Polite Applause**: If escape or mental disassociation is not an
option, remember that Vogons are incredibly sensitive about their
poetry. Polite applause may prevent them from throwing you out of the
airlock.
**Conclusion**
Vogon poetry remains a deeply entrenched part of Vogon culture, its
standing as the third worst in the universe unchallenged. Should you
survive an encounter with it, you ll join the ranks of those few
across the galaxy who can claim to have endured one of the universe's
most torturous experiences. In the grand tradition of the Hitchhiker's
Guide to the Galaxy, the best advice we can offer is: Don't Panic and
carry a towel. You never know when you might need it to muffle the
sound.
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