Ode upon Ode; or, A Peep at St. James’s; or, New Year’s Day; or, What You Will

"Ode upon Ode; or, A Peep at St. James's; or, New Year's Day; or, What You Will" is a satirical poem by Peter Pindar, the pen name of John Wolcot. Written in 1787, it offers a commentary on society, politics, and personalities of the time, specifically targeting King George III.1

The work is an example of a "pseudo-Pindaric ode," which is an irregular ode, meaning it doesn't strictly follow the metrical structure of classical Pindaric odes. Pindaric odes, named after the ancient Greek poet Pindar, traditionally consist of a strophe, antistrophe, and epode, often celebrating athletic victories. Wolcot's use of the form was characteristic of his satirical style, employing verse caricature and witty rhymes to critique public figures.2341