T.Y.S.O.N.

By Banjo Paterson (Andrew Barton)

Across the Queensland border line The mobs of cattle go; They travel down in sun and shine On dusty stage, and slow. The drovers, riding slowly on To let the cattle spread, Will say: "Here's one old landmark gone, For old man Tyson's dead." What tales there'll be in every camp By men that Tyson knew! The swagmen, meeting on the tramp, Will yarn the long day through, And tell of how he passed as "Brown", And fooled the local men: "But not for me, I struck the town, And passed the message further down; That's T.Y.S.O.N.!" There stands a little country town Beyond the border line, Where dusty roads go up and down, And banks with pubs combine. A stranger came to cash a cheque, Few were the words he said, A handkerchief about his neck, An old hat on his head. A long grey stranger, eagle-eyed, "Know me? Of course you do?" "It's not my work," the boss replied, "To know such tramps as you." "Well, look here, Mister, don't be flash," Replied the stranger then, "I never care to make a splash, I'm simple, but I've got the cash; I'm T.Y.S.O.N." But in that last great drafting-yard, Where Peter keeps the gate, And souls of sinners find it barred, And go to meet their fate, There's one who ought to enter in For good deeds done on earth, One who from Peter's self must win That meed of sterling worth. Not to the strait and narrow gate Reserved for wealthy men, But to the big gate, opened wide, The grizzled figure, eagle-eyed, Will saunter up, and then Old Peter'll say: "Let's pass him through; There's many a thing he used to do, Good-hearted things that no one knew; That's T.Y.S.O.N."

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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 narrative homage to an individual named Tyson, where the poet uses vivid imagery and colloquial language to paint a portrait of a rough yet generous character in Australia's outback. The theme of the poem revolves around the gritty reality of life in the Australian bush, the contrasts between appearances and true character, and the value of hidden goodness.

The poem’s structure unfolds like a story, with Tyson's identity and character gradually being revealed through the perspectives of cattle drovers, swagmen, townsmen, and finally, St. Peter at the pearly gates. The consistent use of Tyson's name in the final lines of each stanza serves as a refrain, reinforcing the central figure's impression.

The tone is both nostalgic and respectful, often employing humor and affection to describe Tyson's cunning and simplicity. A significant literary device employed is the dramatic irony; the audience knows Tyson's true identity, but the characters in the poem are often fooled by his appearance. This serves to emphasize the gap between external appearances and internal character, a key theme in the poem.

The poem’s conclusion is an affirmation of Tyson's inherent goodness, revealing that despite his rugged exterior and unconventional manners, he had a heart capable of "good-hearted things that no one knew." This conclusion reinforces the poem's ongoing exploration of contrast between perceived and true identity, while also adding a spiritual dimension to Tyson's character.

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.