Farts In Literature #1

Welcome to another whimsical installment of 'Synthetic Farts'! I'm your host, Paperboy, and today we're about to embark on a literary journey filled with amusing and surprising references to flatulence in some of the world's most cherished written works. Farts in literature? Yes, they're there, and they're not as discreet as you might think.

We'll start this exploration with none other than William Shakespeare, one of the most celebrated authors in history. While Shakespeare's works are known for their poetic eloquence and deep themes, he also included rather obscure references to farts within his texts. These references were cleverly disguised in the rich tapestry of his words, making them both poetic and humorous.

For instance, in 'King Lear,' we encounter the line: 'Blow Winds, and Crack Your Cheeks!' While Shakespeare doesn't directly employ the word 'fart,' he certainly paints a vivid and comical mental picture. It seems that the Bard of Avon had a knack for weaving whimsy into his storytelling, even when it came to subjects that were considered somewhat indelicate in his time. It's possible that the world simply wasn't ready for more straightforward discussions about flatulence back then.

Another instance can be found in his play 'The Comedy of Errors.' In Act 3, Scene 1, Dromio of Ephesus, a character in the play, finds himself locked out of Antipholus's house, leading to an argumentative exchange. Within this exchange, we stumble upon this quote: 'A man may break a word with you, sir, and words are but wind. Ay, and break it in your face, so he break it not behind.' Shakespeare's ability to incorporate cheeky humor and hidden references in his work is truly a testament to his literary genius. There are more such references in his plays for the curious reader to discover, and I'll provide some links for further exploration at the end of this article.

Now, let's shift our focus to another luminary in the world of literature, Geoffrey Chaucer, particularly his magnum opus, 'The Canterbury Tales.' Chaucer was known for his wit and humor, and he wasn't shy about including references to flatulence in his stories. Among the various tales told by the characters on their pilgrimage to Canterbury, you'll find multiple references to farts.

For example, in 'The Miller's Tale,' Chaucer writes, 'He was a little squeamish in the matter, Of farting…' Another instance from the same tale reads, 'Nicholas at once let fly a fart, As loud as if it were a thunder-clap…' And then there's, 'Into that friar’s hand he blew a fart.' Evidently, Chaucer was comfortable weaving these references into his narratives, infusing humor and humanity into his characters.

Now, let's transition to a writer whose works hail from the American South, Mark Twain. Yes, even this beloved and iconic author didn't shy away from the occasional foray into flatulent humor. In his work '1601,' a collection of fictional fireside chat conversations with famous people from the year 1601, we discover a humorous episode involving flatulence in the court of Queen Elizabeth I.

In the story, someone accidentally lets one rip during a gathering at the court. The incident is met with laughter, but quickly, fingers start pointing in all directions to uncover the culprit. Lady Alice chimes in, saying, 'Nay 'tis not I [who has] brought forth this rich o’ermastering fog, this fragrant gloom, so pray you seek ye further.' After several more humorous and somewhat absurd accusations, Sir Walter Raleigh, a historical figure who just happened to be around that day, finally confesses, 'Most gracious majesty, ’twas I that did it, but indeed it was so poor and frail a note.'

Finally, let's delve into the world of James Joyce, a renowned author best known for his masterpiece, 'Ulysses.' While Joyce's literary accomplishments are numerous and his works have achieved a lofty status in the world of literature, he also had a rather unusual fixation on flatulence, particularly during intimate moments with his wife, Nora. In his published love letters to her, Joyce doesn't hold back in describing these moments in graphic detail.

One such passage reads, 'I think I would know Nora’s fart anywhere. I think I could pick hers out in a roomful of farting women. It is a rather girlish noise not like the wet windy fart which I imagine fat wives have.' This fascination with flatulence during intimate encounters is known as eproctophilia, and it's not something typically associated with authors of Joyce's stature.

We hope you've found this exploration into the quirky and surprising world of flatulence references in literature both informative and entertaining. It's a reminder that even the most celebrated authors had their moments of humor, often touching on subjects that, at the time, were considered taboo. The ability to blend comedy and candor into their works showcases their diverse talents.

If you've enjoyed this journey through literary history, don't forget to subscribe, share, and like our content. And as you go about your day, may it be filled with laughter and, who knows, perhaps an occasional lighthearted sound effect. Thank you for joining us at 'Synthetic Farts,' where we revel in the curious and humorous aspects of our world.

Quote References

King Lear - https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/1794/pg1794.html

Comedy Of Errors - https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/23046/pg23046-images.html

The Canterbury Tales - https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/2383/pg2383-images.html

1601- https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/3190/pg3190-images.html

James Joyce Love Letter - https://allthatsinteresting.com/james-joyce-love-letters-nora-barnacle