Pre-Ulyssean Dilemma

Why did Joyce call the guy Athy
When he could have called him Naas?

On a map of Kildare
Two towns, at a glance,
Rhyme with what's found
In a character's pants.

Young Dedalus shared a sickroom
With a guy nicknamed 'a thigh'.
'An arse' it could have equally been.
Why not? I'll give it a try.

First thoughts were Joyce were a shy man;
Then I guessed his mind too high class.
The truth of it is, he was tickled
By the towns of Athy and of Naas.
Just to mention Athy to an Ireman
Brings on a joke of an arse.

poem by Douglas Scotney
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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