Confession: and a Portrait Too, Upon a Background that I Rue

by Gelett Burgess

Ah, yes, I wrote the “Purple Cow”—
I’m Sorry, now, I wrote it;
But I can tell you Anyhow
I’ll Kill you if you Quote it!

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About the Author

Gelett Burgess was an American visual artist. The poem was written in response to the reception granted Burgess’ “Purple Cow“.

Publication Rights

This poem is in the public domain. It was published in the last issue of The Lark in 1897.