Ruth McEnery Stuart
Daddy Do-Funny's Wisdom Jingles
"Daddy Do-Funny's Wisdom Jingles" by Ruth McEnery Stuart is a charming collection of whimsical poems and jingles that captures the humor and wisdom of a fictional character named Daddy Do-Funny, who is portrayed as a wise old man on a Southern plantation. Written in the early 20th century, specifically around the 1910s, this book reflects the dialect and social dynamics of African American culture during the post-Civil War period. The likely topic of the book centers on everyday observations, life lessons, and playful anecdotes, all expressed through light-hearted verse. The content of the book features a series of short poems that highlight both the humor and wisdom of Daddy Do-Funny as he shares his insights on various subjects, emphasizing the idiosyncrasies of life through the characteristics of animals, nature, and simple rural living. Each poem captures a unique moral lesson or humorous reflection, often illustrated with clever rhymes portraying Southern life and its challenges. Characters such as a proud rooster, an ambitious cow, and a wise owl serve as metaphors, reinforcing the messages of personal growth, community values, and the importance of humility and understanding. Through delightful humor and relatable themes, the poems provide a nostalgic glimpse into the cultural heritage and everyday wisdom of the era.