JUST A RESTIN – Gibson Publishers

JUST A RESTIN

I wish I wuz a rock, A sittin’on a hill
A doin’ nothing all day long
‘Cept just a sittin’ still;
I wouldn’t eat, I wouldn’t sleep,
I wouldn’t even wash,
I’d just sit still a million years
And rest myself, b’gosh!”

A Gibson Product

The poem is written in jargon in keeping with the young man’s clothing. Also referred to as slang, his vocabulary reflects the culture in which he lived. Vocabulary jargon developed amongst people who live in isolated places. And being written around the turn-of-the-century, many were still not educated or as sophisticated as those who lived in cities. Also, framed mottos were not only sold in art, stationery and department stores but in local general stores which in the 50s became to be known as the five and dime stores. Several publishers adapted their products accordingly, thus the use of slang used in framed mottos is prevalent.

R.L. is printed under the motto. The initials are somewhat ambiguous. R.L. could stand for either the poet’s or illustrator’s name. JUST A RESTIN’ remains framed in its original frame, glass as well as a small brass hanger. The frame itself is 1/2” wide with a green vine of leaves outlined with gold beading. The motto is a lithograph print colorfully designed and remains in good vintage condition.

Dimensions:  5 3/4” x 8”