The Shanty

By Edward Dyson

Narrative Poem
The shanty stands in a lonely spot, With walls of tin and boards; It’s weathered many a storm and plot, And heard the bushmen’s chords. The roof is rusted, the walls are thin, The door hangs off its hinge; But inside there’s a warmth within, Where the bushmen always binge. The fire burns bright in the open hearth, The kettle sings its tune; The shanty’s filled with honest mirth, Beneath the southern moon. The shanty’s seen the years go by, It’s heard the tales of old; It’s where the bushmen laugh and sigh, And the stories still are told.
Written: 1890-01-01

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Poem Details

Date Written: 1890-01-01
Date Published: 1890-01-01
Language: English
Keywords: Bush Life, Tradition, Home, Camaraderie, Nostalgia
Source: Public Domain Collection
Publisher: E. Dyson
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
A narrative poem that depicts the shanty as a cherished place in the Australian bush, where bushmen gather to share warmth, stories, and camaraderie, despite its humble appearance.

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.