Meaning: The quote "That was in the days when everyone rode a bicycle, and the journal had a circulation of over one hundred and twenty-five thousand weekly, so my verses and illustrations became known to a fairly large public." by Joseph Lincoln reflects a time in history when bicycles were a popular mode of transportation and a widely used means of leisure and recreation. The quote also suggests that the periodical in which Lincoln's work was published had a significant readership, allowing his verses and illustrations to reach a large and diverse audience.

Joseph Crosby Lincoln (1870-1944) was an American author known for his novels and short stories set in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. He was a prolific writer, and his works often depicted the everyday lives of the people in coastal New England. Lincoln's writing style and subject matter resonated with a wide readership, and he gained popularity during the early 20th century.

The reference to "the days when everyone rode a bicycle" in the quote signifies a specific era in history. The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked a period of significant growth in bicycle usage. Bicycles became a symbol of freedom and mobility, offering individuals an affordable and efficient means of transportation. This transportation revolution led to a surge in bicycle manufacturing and the development of cycling culture across the United States and other parts of the world.

During this time, cycling clubs and events proliferated, contributing to the rise of a vibrant cycling community. The popularity of bicycles extended beyond practicality, as cycling also became a popular pastime and a source of recreation for people of all ages. As a result, the presence of bicycles in daily life and leisure activities became a defining characteristic of the era.

The mention of the journal with a circulation of over one hundred and twenty-five thousand weekly emphasizes the widespread readership that the periodical commanded. In an era before widespread electronic media, magazines and newspapers were primary sources of information, entertainment, and literary content for the general public. With such a large circulation, the journal provided a platform for writers and illustrators, like Joseph Lincoln, to reach a broad audience and establish their reputations as literary figures.

Lincoln's verses and illustrations, therefore, gained exposure to a fairly large public through the pages of this widely circulated journal. This exposure allowed his work to become familiar to a broad and diverse readership, contributing to his recognition and success as a writer and illustrator during that time.

In conclusion, the quote by Joseph Lincoln provides insight into a specific historical period characterized by the widespread popularity of bicycles and the influence of widely circulated journals. It underscores the impact of mass media and popular culture on the dissemination of literary and artistic works, highlighting the significance of the era in shaping the readership and recognition of authors and illustrators. Through this quote, we gain a glimpse into a bygone era when bicycles were ubiquitous and print media played a pivotal role in shaping public discourse and cultural consumption.