The Biglow Papers

James Russell Lowell's 'The Biglow Papers' is a collection of satirical poems written in the Yankee dialect, addressing political and social issues of the time. Published in 1848, during the tumultuous period leading up to the American Civil War, the work criticizes the Mexican-American War and explores themes of patriotism, justice, and the power of the common man. Lowell's use of humor and wit adds depth to his commentary, making the poems both entertaining and thought-provoking. The literary context of 'The Biglow Papers' as a work of political satire places it alongside other influential 19th-century American writers such as Mark Twain and Edgar Allan Poe. Lowell's clever wordplay and keen observations make this collection a classic of American literature.