Edward Lear's Nonsense Botany

A selection of Edward Lear’s drawings from the Houghton Library’s collections

Anna Lena Phillips

In a January–February Science Observer, we considered the resurgence of interest in Edward Lear’s scientific illustration—and the possibility that his nonsense drawings and verse might have practical use as well. Lear (1812–1888) made his name with a monograph on parrots, published in 1832. As he labored over his exacting illustrations, he also made whimsical poetry and drawings for children. Concerned that the latter would cause people to take his scientific work less seriously, he published them pseudonymously at first. Later he became well known for these limericks, nonsense alphabets and other poems.

Full Article @ AmericanScientist