I read a poem by Edgar Guest in Hope’s blog (Second Time Around) today and it reminded me of the first time I commented on Kim’s blog (Dear Daisy Cottage). She had written a post about Edgar Guest and how much she loved his poetry. There was a picture of a book of his poetry and it brought back such memories. You see, Edgar Guest was my Dad’s godfather. My Dad always quoted the poem It Couldn’t Be Done to me when I complained that I would never be able to do something or other. He paraphrased the poem so that it read “Somebody said it couldn’t be done, but I with a chuckle replied, I wouldn’t say so until I tried.” I still quote that Dad-version of the line myself. If you read the poem you’ll find that the actual line is longer and slightly different.
I grew up hearing about what a lovely man Edgar Guest was. I never got to meet him, but my Dad is proud that he was his godfather. We lived in the Detroit area and Guest’s son, Bud, was a radio personality on one of Detroit’s major radio stations. He had a wonderful voice and his show was very warm and folksy. He often read his father’s poetry on the air.
After talking to Kim, I decided to collect some copies of Edgar Guest’s books. This photo is of two of them arranged on my piano, along with a book that was my grandmother’s. The Model T was my Dad’s toy when he was a little boy. He is now 84!
I am so happy that you have found some wonderful Edgar Guest books too! I think of you to this day and the history that you kindly shared with me about your family history with Mr. Guest whenever I spend some time with my own collection. I am so appreciative of your sharing that with me.
Welcome to Blogland! I’m so glad you are here!
xo,
Kim
http://www.deardaisycottage.typepad.com
Oh Claudia, I’m so impressed that you have a connection to Edgar Guest. I had heard quotes from him many times but really hadn’t read much of his works. About a year or so ago I read a quote on a blog and decided to learn more about this man and I’m so glad I did! Now I want his books too! I’m not familar with It Couldn’t Be Done but I’m going to look that one up and read it! Thanks for sharing this history!
I came over to tell you that I have tagged you for a meme on my blog. If you’ve never played, come on over and check it out. If you don’t want to participate, that’s okay too!!
Hugs,
Hope
Hi,just came to vist from Hope’s site she has you tagged,and said to come and visit.I have been tagges well.
What interesting information about Edgar Guest. My mother introduced me to his poetry. She has several of his books and I often sit and read through them again. Sometimes we never know anything about the real person behind the poems and stories we love. It was great to know a bit more about him. Thank you for sharing with us. ~Adrienne~
What a beautiful story. Thanks for sharing! xo Rachel
so claudia, what else are you keeping from us?
-aubrey