The Bab Ballads, with Which Are Included Songs of a Savoyard

by W. S. (William Schwenck) Gilbert

"The Bab Ballads, with Which Are Included Songs of a Savoyard" by W. S. Gilbert is a collection of light verse published between 1869 and 1898. These humorous poems, illustrated by Gilbert himself, develop his signature "topsy-turvy" style—establishing ridiculous premises and following them to absurd logical conclusions. Written before Gilbert became famous for his comic operas with Arthur Sullivan, the ballads showcase his cynical wit and later provided source material for the beloved Gilbert and Sullivan works. The verses became wildly popular, performed at private gatherings and public events alike.