By Robert Hayman
Quodlibets, by Robert Hayman, is quite likely the first work of English poetry penned in North America. Hayman composed this collection of witty verses during his service as governor of the English colony in Harbour Grace, Newfoundland. Containing original poetry as well as his translations of pieces by John Owen and Francois Rabelais, Hayman’s poetic insight reflects on thieves and knaves, good wives and whores, as well as the beauty of Newfoundland’s rugged landscape. This is a saucy appeal from an adventurer’s soul, beckoning others to settle in Newfoundland. This edition has been adapted and introduced by David Reynolds.