To-Morrow

By Henry Lawson

Ballad
    When youre suffering hard for your sins, old man,     When you wake to trouble and sleep ill,     Oh, this is the clack of the middle class,     Win back the respect of the people!     You are weak, youre a fool, or a drunken brute     When youre deep in trouble and sorrow;     But walk down the street in a decent suit,     And their hats will be off to-morrow! Old Chap,     And their hats will be off to-morrow!     They cant and they cackle, Redeem the Past!     Who never had past worth redeeming:     Your soul seems dead, but youll find at last     That somewhere your soul lay dreaming.     You may stagger down-hill in a beer-stained coat,     You may loaf, you may cadge and borrow,     But walk down the street with a ten-pound note     And their hats will be off to-morrow! Old Man,     Yes, their hats will be off to-morrow!     But stick to it, man! for your old selfs sake,     Though to brood on the past is human;     Hold up for the sake of the mate who was true,     And the sake of the Other Woman.     And as for the rest, you may take off your hat     And banish all signs of sorrow;     You may take their hands, but in spite of that,     Can they win your respect to-morrow? Old Man,     Can they win your respect to-morrow?

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
The poem is a profound exploration of societal judgment and self-redemption, encapsulating the struggle of an individual who is perceived differently based on his external circumstances. The poet skillfully employs a conversational tone, imparting a feeling of intimacy and personal connection to the reader. The poem's structure, primarily composed of quatrains with a consistent rhyme scheme, lends a rhythmic quality that underscores the poem's themes.

The theme of societal judgment is evident in the poet's repeated reference to the 'hats off' gesture — a symbol of respect that is dependent not on the individual's character, but his outward appearance and economic status. This critique of superficial societal norms is a significant element of the poem. The poet also delves into the theme of self-redemption. The speaker encourages the 'old man' to persevere, not for societal acceptance, but for his own salvation, emphasizing the value of personal integrity over societal validation.

The use of the 'old man' as a symbol for anyone battling societal judgment and personal demons is a powerful literary device. This allows the poet to communicate universal human struggles, such as the need for acceptance and the pursuit of self-improvement, making the poem relatable to a broad audience. The poem's conclusion leaves the reader with a provocative question, suggesting that genuine respect may not be as easily won as superficial admiration, and that one's self-respect is of greater value than societal approval.

In conclusion, the poem is a poignant commentary on society and self, masterfully employing a range of literary devices to convey its themes and provoke thoughtful reflection.

Understanding Ballads

A ballad is a form of verse, often a narrative set to music, that has been a cornerstone of storytelling across various cultures. Traditionally passed down orally, ballads are known for their rhythmic structure and often tell tales of love, adventure, and heroism.

Ballads are characterized by their strong rhythm and repetition, making them both memorable and engaging. Here are some defining features:

  • Narrative Structure: Ballads typically tell a story, often a dramatic or emotional tale that unfolds in a straightforward, chronological order.
  • Quatrain Stanzas: Most ballads are composed of quatrains (four-line stanzas) with a rhyme scheme of ABAB or ABCB, which adds to the musicality of the verse.
  • Repetition: Refrains or repeated lines are common in ballads, helping to emphasize key themes or emotions and making the ballad easier to remember.
  • Oral Tradition: Many ballads originated from oral traditions, which means they were passed down through generations by word of mouth before being written down.

From medieval minstrels to contemporary songwriters, ballads have continued to evolve, remaining a beloved form of expression that captures the human experience in a way that is both poetic and accessible.