If I Ran the Zoo Admiration Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Stanza.Line)

Quote #1

They'll be so surprised they'll all swallow their gum. / They'll ask, when they see my strange animals come, / "Where do you suppose he gets things like that from?" (8.1-3)

First, McGrew's imagined creations get the admiration, but just wait. We're only getting started.

Quote #2

Then people will say, "Now I like that boy heaps. / His New Zoo, McGrew Zoo, is growing by leaps." (14.3-4)

McGrew gives himself a little imagined admiration. Hey, his brain's been working hard here. He's earned it.

Quote #3

When people see him [the Iota], they will say, "Now, by thunder! / This New Zoo, McGrew Zoo, is really a wonder!" (19.1-2)

Notice how McGrew's admiration comes through his imagined creations. It's the same way an artist feels praise from others praising his art. Wonder if Seuss is giving himself a bit of the old pat-on-the-back for these creatures himself?

Quote #4

"McGrew," they will say, "does a wonderful jobsk! / He hunts with such vim and he hunts with such vigor, / His New Zoo, McGrew Zoo, gets bigger and bigger!" (30.6-8)

At least McGrew imagines himself working hard to earn his praise. He sure imagines with vim and vigor.

Quote #5

"WOW! They'll all cheer, / "What this zoo must be worth!/ It's the gol-darndest zoo / On the face of the earth!" (35.1-4)

The grand finale of praise. Just look at all that admiration: CAPS, exclamations points, italics! Simmer down, McGrew.