The Poetical Works of Oliver Wendell Holmes — Volume 03: Medical Poems

"The Poetical Works of Oliver Wendell Holmes — Volume 03: Medical Poems by Holmes" is a collection of poetry authored by Oliver Wendell Holmes, written during the mid-to-late 19th century. This volume contains a series of medical-themed poems that reflect Holmes's keen observations and reflections on the medical profession and its practices. The book primarily discusses topics related to medicine, health, and the experiences of both doctors and patients. The poems in this collection include notable works such as "The Morning Visit," "The Stethoscope Song," and "Rip Van Winkle, M. D." Each piece employs humor and wit to explore the dynamics of health care, showcasing the interactions between physicians and their patients while also critiquing medical practices of the time. Holmes cleverly blends medical terminology with poetic language to engage readers, illustrating the challenges and eccentricities of the medical field. With a light-hearted tone, the collection ultimately emphasizes the importance of kindness and understanding in the practice of medicine, providing insights that resonate even today. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. was an American physician, poet, and polymath based in Boston. Grouped among the fireside poets, he was acclaimed by his peers as one of the best writers of the day. His most famous prose works are the "Breakfast-Table" series, which began with The Autocrat of the Breakfast-Table (1858). He was also an important medical reformer. In addition to his work as an author and poet, Holmes also served as a physician, professor, lecturer, inventor, and, although he never practiced it, he received formal training in law.