Any Other Time

By Banjo Paterson (Andrew Barton)

All of us play our very best game, Any other time. Golf or billiards, it's all the same, Any other time. Lose a match and you always say, "Just ny luck! I was 'off' today! I could have beaten him quite half-way, Any other time!" After a fiver you ought to go, Any other time. Every man that you ask says "Oh, Any other time. Lend you a fiver? I'd lend you two, But I'm overdrawn and my bills are due, Wish you'd ask me, now, mind you do, Any other time!" Fellows will ask you out to dine, Any other time. "Not tonight for we're twenty-nine, Any other time. Not tomorrow, for cook's on strike; Not next day, I'll be out on the bike; Just drop in whenever you like Any other time!" Seasick passengers like the sea, Any other time. "Something . . I ate . . disagreed . . with . . me! Any other time. Ocean-travelling is .. simply bliss, Must be my . . liver . . has gone amiss . . Why, I would . . laugh . . at a sea . . like this, Any other time!" Most of us mean to be better men, Any other time: Regular upright characters then, Any other time. Yet somehow as the years go by Still we gamble and drink and lie, When it comes to the last we'll want to die, Any other time!

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Poem Details

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Analysis & Notes:

This poem is a satirical exploration of procrastination, denial, and the human tendency to defer responsibility or action to an unspecified future. The recurring phrase "Any other time" serves as a humorous refrain, illustrating the universal tendency to deflect blame or dismiss opportunities in favor of a more convenient, yet indeterminate, future moment.

The poem's tone is light and humorous, gently mocking the excuses and deferrals that are part of everyday life. The relatively simple rhyme scheme and rhythm contribute to this playful tone, making the poem accessible and engaging. However, beneath this jovial exterior, the poem presents a more serious critique of human nature and our tendency to avoid discomfort or difficulty.

Each stanza presents a different scenario, from sports to finances to social engagements, demonstrating the breadth of situations in which we employ this tactic of deferral. The final stanza takes a more serious turn, suggesting that these habits of procrastination and avoidance can lead to a life of regret and unfulfilled potential. This shift in tone underscores the poem's central message, reminding readers of the importance of seizing the moment and taking responsibility for their actions.

The poem uses repetition and rhythm effectively to reinforce its central theme and to create a kind of chorus in the refrain "Any other time". This repetition, combined with the poem's conversational language and accessible themes, makes it a relatable and thought-provoking piece.