How The Favourite Beat Us

By Banjo Paterson (Andrew Barton)

Narrative Poem
"Aye," said the boozer, "I tell you it's true, sir, I once was a punter with plenty of pelf, But gone is my glory, I'll tell you the story How I stiffened my horse and got stiffened myself. "'Twas a mare called the Cracker, I came down to back her, But found she was favourite all of a rush, The folk just did pour on to lay six to four on, And several bookies were killed in the crush. "It seems old Tomato was stiff, though a starter; They reckoned him fit for the Caulfield to keep. The Bloke and the Donah were scratched by their owner, He only was offered three-fourths of the sweep. "We knew Salamander was slow as a gander, The mare could have beat him the length of the straight, And old Manumission was out of condition, And most of the others were running off weight. "No doubt someone 'blew it', for everyone knew it, The bets were all gone, and I muttered in spite, 'If I can't get a copper, by Jingo, I'll stop her, Let the public fall in, it will serve the brutes right.' "I said to the jockey, 'Now, listen, my cocky, You watch as you're cantering down by the stand, I'll wait where that toff is and give you the office, You're only to win if I lift up my hand.' "I then tried to back her, 'What price is the Cracker?' 'Our books are all full, sir,' each bookie did swear; My mind, then, I made up, my fortune I played up I bet every shilling against my own mare. "I strolled to the gateway, the mare, in the straight way Was shifting and dancing, and pawing the ground, The boy saw me enter and wheeled for his canter, When a darned great mosquito came buzzing around. "They breed 'em at Hexham, it's risky to vex 'em, They suck a man dry at a sitting, no doubt, But just as the mare passed, he fluttered my hair past, I lifted my hand, and I flattened him out. "I was stunned when they started, the mare simply darted Away to the front when the flag was let fall, For none there could match her, and none tried to catch her, She finished a furlong in front of them all. "You bet that I went for the boy, whom I sent for The moment he weighed and came out of the stand, "Who paid you to win it? Come, own up this minute." "Lord love yer," said he, "why, you lifted your hand." `'Twas true, by St Peter, that cursed 'muskeeter' Had broke me so broke that I hadn't a brown, And you'll find the best course is when dealing with horses To win when you're able, and keep your hands down."

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem engages the reader with its humorous and rhythmic storytelling. It explores themes of gambling, chance, and the unexpected consequences that can arise from one's actions. The narrative follows the tale of a punter who tries to manipulate a horse race but ultimately falls victim to his own scheme.

The poem's tone is light and playful, using rhymes and a variety of characters to enliven the story. The structure of the poem, with its consistent rhyme scheme and rhythm, echoes the galloping pace of a horse race, adding to the immersive storytelling experience. The poet employs humor through situational irony, as the protagonist's scheme to cheat the system ends up backfiring due to a simple, unexpected event - the swatting of a mosquito. This small act inadvertently sends a signal to the jockey to win the race, a stark reminder of how the best-laid plans can go awry.

The colloquial language and depiction of different characters in the horse racing scene add to the vivid imagery and humor. Notable is the use of horse racing jargon, which gives authenticity to the narrative and places the reader in the midst of the action. The poem ultimately serves as a satirical commentary on gambling and the unpredictable nature of life, a message that is delivered with wit and charm.

Exploring Narrative Poetry

Narrative poetry is a form of poetry that tells a story, often making use of the voices of a narrator and characters as well. Unlike lyric poetry, which focuses on emotions and thoughts, narrative poetry is dedicated to storytelling, weaving tales that captivate readers through plot and character development.

Narrative poems are unique in their ability to combine the depth of storytelling with the expressive qualities of poetry. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Structured Plot: Narrative poems typically have a clear beginning, middle, and end, following a plot that might involve conflict, climax, and resolution, much like a short story or novel.
  • Character Development: Characters in narrative poems are often well-developed, with distinct voices and personalities that drive the story forward.
  • Descriptive Language: The language used in narrative poetry is vivid and descriptive, painting a clear picture of the scenes and events, while also conveying the emotions and atmosphere of the story.

From ancient epics like "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" to more modern narrative poems, this form continues to engage readers by blending the art of storytelling with the beauty and rhythm of poetry.