Samuel E. (Samuel Ellsworth) Kiser
Thrills of a Bell Boy
"Thrills of a Bell Boy" by Samuel E. Kiser is a humorous narrative poem published in the early 20th century. It offers a light-hearted glimpse into the life of a bellboy working in a hotel, revealing his thoughts and interactions with various guests. The book cleverly captures the comedic and wistful perspectives of a young man navigating his feelings for a beautiful actress while observing the eccentricities of the hotel life around him. The story follows the unnamed bellboy as he navigates the bustling environment of his workplace, where he serves guests with a mix of admiration and envy. He becomes infatuated with a charming actress named Miss Le Claire, often daydreaming about her and imagining their lives together. Throughout the verses, he contemplates themes of love, ambition, and self-image, while commenting humorously on the behaviors of hotel guests and fellow staff members. The bellboy's journey reflects a blend of youthful aspirations and the bittersweet realization of reality, ultimately portraying a relatable struggle for identity and acceptance in a fast-paced world.