Doesticks: What He Says

Doesticks: What He Says is a satirical collection by Mortimer Thomson writing under the humorous pseudonym Q. K. Philander Doesticks. In this work Thomson presents a series of witty essays and sketches that mock the absurdities of mid-19th century American society covering topics ranging from politics and fashion to social conventions and travel. Through his sharp wit and exaggerated narrative style Doesticks takes aim at the hypocrisies and pretensions of contemporary culture offering both humor and social critique. The character of Doesticks a clever and cynical observer navigates a range of situations each described with biting irony and comic flair. His satirical commentary often touches on issues of class privilege and the American obsession with progress revealing the inconsistencies and foibles of society. Thomson uses absurd scenarios and wordplay to craft his criticisms inviting readers to laugh at the same society they inhabit and recognize its flaws.