The Diverting History of John Gilpin Showing How He Went Farther Than He Intended, and Came Safe Home Again

"The Diverting History of John Gilpin" by William Cowper is a funny poem from the 1700s that tells the story of John Gilpin's crazy adventure. The poem is all about John, who is getting ready to celebrate his wedding day with his wife. He plans a nice trip, but his horse suddenly runs off, taking him on a wild ride through the town. As John zooms past surprised people, the poem focuses on how funny and silly the whole thing is, and in the end, John makes it back home safe and sound, showing the light and amusing tone of this comic story.