Home > Humour > Cartoon
Omar the Optimist by Bruce Bairnsfather
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Omar the Optimist by Bruce Bairnsfather
Omar the Optimist " Here with a loaf of bread beneath the row, A muttered curse, but ne er a whine, and thou- Beside me, singing in the wilderness, The wilderness is Paradise enow." Acartoon by Captain Bruce Bairnsfather in The Bystander Date: 1916
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14141591
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Bairnsfather Bill Bruce Omar Optimism Optimist Poem Poetry
Omar the Optimist
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a beloved and iconic cartoon character created by British satirical artist, Bruce Bairnsfather, during the tumultuous period of World War I. This particular image, published in The Bystander magazine in 1916, depicts Omar, a soldier, sitting on the ground with a loaf of bread in the midst of a desolate and barren landscape. The wilderness around him seems inhospitable, yet Omar's face is filled with a quiet determination and unwavering optimism. The verse inscribed beneath the image, "Here with a loaf of bread beneath the row, A muttered curse, but ne'er a whine, and thou- Beside me, singing in the wilderness, The wilderness is Paradise enow," further emphasizes Omar's resilient spirit. This poem, often attributed to Robert Browning, speaks of finding beauty and peace in even the most challenging circumstances. Bairnsfather's cartoons, filled with wit and humor, provided a much-needed respite for the British public during the Great War. Omar, with his unyielding optimism, became a symbol of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity. This poignant image serves as a reminder of the human spirit's ability to find joy and meaning in the most unexpected places. Bruce Bairnsfather, a veteran himself, drew upon his own experiences in the trenches to create these satirical and insightful works of art. "Omar the Optimist" remains a testament to the enduring power of humor and the indomitable human spirit, even in the most trying of times. The image of Omar, with his simple pleasures and unwavering optimism, continues to resonate with audiences today, offering a glimpse into the past and a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.