Gay gods and merry mortals: some excursions in verse

by Robert J. (Robert James) Shores

"Gay Gods and Merry Mortals: Some Excursions in Verse" by Robert J. Shores is a collection of humorous poetry written in the early 20th century. The book consists of a series of whimsical retellings of ancient Greek and Roman myths, exploring the interactions between gods and mortals while highlighting their human traits and follies. Shores employs a light-hearted tone to present these classic tales in a way that is engaging and accessible. Within the collection, Shores reimagines stories of well-known figures from mythology such as Actæon, Adonis, and Dido, infusing each narrative with a playful twist. The poems often include witty morals that reflect on themes of love, desire, and the consequences of one’s actions. For instance, Actæon’s unfortunate transformation into a stag after accidentally seeing the goddess Diana bathing underscores the blend of humor and caution in the book. Overall, "Gay Gods and Merry Mortals" provides readers with an entertaining and quirky perspective on timeless myths, inviting them to appreciate the humor inherent in human and divine relationships.