What an excellent and talented set of responses so far.
A few people have strayed off-topic and posted variations on a theme or else ripostes. Fair enough, I think. In some cases (eg Roger's "Trees") the result's a pretty good poem in its own right.
More importantly, I personally believe that limericks should conform strictly to their metrical convention to be successful. One or two people (no names, no pack-drill) have varied the metre and thereby lessened the impact, in my opinion.
Everybody's clearly recognised the importance of hammering home the incongruity, and I think the most successful efforts are those that add other incongruities, thereby further deflating their victims' bubbles. Examples are Roger's opening "Nightingale" ("cheep": brilliant!) and Jan's wonderfully contorted lime/I'm rhyme in his version of Trees.
Also I loved Robin's Beowulf--bloodlust and limericks are so delightfully incongruous--and Henry's Ancient Mariner ("doubtless you've heard it"--poor Coleridge must be turning in his grave).
Anyway, just a few chosen from so many fine efforts, and hoping to see many more.
Best wishes,
David
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