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About this quote

What does it mean?
The sun can set wherever it wishes, and humorously claims it also has a hen.
In plain terms
The sun sets wherever it likes, and it has a hen.
What can you take from it?
Nature follows its own rules, sometimes whimsically described.

Where it applies

  • poetic musings
  • lighthearted commentary

Putting it to work

  • creative writing
  • satire

Questions to consider

  • What does the hen symbolize?
  • Is the sun’s freedom being mocked?

Another view

The statement mixes metaphor with nonsense, limiting literal meaning.

More from Artemus Ward

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  2. They cherish his mem'ry, and them as sell picturs of his birthplace, etc., make it prof'tible cherishin' it.

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  3. He is dreadfully married. 'He's the most married man I ever saw in my life.'

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