Among the many compatibilities of Genia and Rudi Peierls were a gift for light verse and an outgoing temperament that found frequent outlet in social occasions. Their early days were marked with intense social activity; later, some of this was channelled into pastoral care for students and their families. Peierls refers to this in Bird of Passage, pp. 212-214, 299-300, and many references in the correspondence recall unforgettable parties, especially in the large Birmingham house which was often a hostel or refuge for an extended 'family' of students.

The material includes greetings or messages in verse by one or both of the Peierls for birthdays, weddings, leaving parties, conference gatherings or various other memorable occasions. Not all can be dated. Some have historical interest. Some of the recipients reply in kind, or provide material of their own for special events or anniversaries of the Peierls.