Author: Banjo Paterson (Andrew Barton)
What have the cavalry done? Cantered and trotted about, Routin' the enemy out, Causin' the beggars to run! And we tramped along in the blazin' heat, Over the veldt on our weary feet. Tramp, tramp, tramp Under the blazin' sun, With never the sight of a bloomin' Boer, 'Cause they'd hunted 'em long before, That's what the cavalry done! What have the gunners done Battlin' every day, Battlin' any way. Boers outranged 'em, but what cared they? "Shoot and be damned," said the R.H.A.! See! when the fight grows hot, Under the rifles or not, Always the order runs, "Fetch up the bloomin' guns!" And you'd see them great gun horses spring To the "action front", and around they'd swing. Find the range with some queer machine "At four thousand with fuse fourteen. Ready! Fire number one!" Handled the battery neat and quick! Stick to it, too! How did they stick! Never a gunner was seen to run! Never a gunner would leave his gun! Not though his mates dropped all around! Always a gunner would stand his ground. Take the army, the infantry, Mounted rifles, and cavalry, Twice the numbers I'd give away, And I'd fight the lot with the R.H.A., For they showed us how a corps should be run, That's what the gunners done!
Type of Poem: Ballad
Date Written:
Date Published:
Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Publisher:
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Comments/Notes: This poem vividly portrays the valor and resilience of soldiers in battle, with a particular emphasis on cavalry and gunners. The use of dialect and colloquial language throughout adds authenticity and immediacy to the narrative, immersing the reader in the soldiers’ experiences.
The poem's structure is interesting, prominently featuring repetition and rhythm that mimic the relentless march and rhythm of war, as seen in lines like "Tramp, tramp, tramp/Under the blazin' sun." This creates a sense of exhaustion and relentlessness, capturing the weariness of the soldiers.
The themes of bravery, duty, and camaraderie are prevalent, highlighting the bond between soldiers and their unwavering commitment to their roles. The gunners are particularly lauded for their tenacity, as they continue to operate their weapons regardless of the danger they face.
The poem's tone is a mix of bravado, admiration and a touch of grim humor. It describes the harsh realities of war but also celebrates the spirit of the soldiers, their toughness, and their determination. Despite the harsh conditions they face, there's a sense of pride in their work and a conviction in their cause. The repetition of "That's what the [cavalry/gunners] done!" underscores this pride and serves as a tribute to their efforts.
In terms of literary devices, the poet uses personification when describing the guns, giving them human-like attributes, which creates a vivid, memorable image. Simultaneously, the poet’s consistent use of colloquial speech and dialect adds a sense of realism and immediacy to the poem, grounding it in a specific time and place.
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:
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.