Hawking by Andrew Barton Paterson

Name: Hawking
Author: Andrew Barton Paterson

The work presents a lively and humorous portrayal of the life of hawkers in Australia, emphasizing the ease and profitability of their trade compared to traditional labor. It opens with a call to action for those who own horses or drays to abandon idle chatter and embrace the hawking business, suggesting that it offers a path to financial success. The narrative highlights the diverse backgrounds of the hawkers, including stockmen, bushmen, and bullock-punchers, all of whom are drawn to the lucrative opportunities of selling goods. The repetitive chorus reinforces the communal spirit and enthusiasm for hawking, creating a sense of camaraderie among those involved in the trade. The text further explores the carefree lifestyle of hawkers, who enjoy a level of freedom and financial gain that contrasts sharply with the hard labor of other professions. It suggests that the hawker's work is primarily conversational, with minimal physical effort required, and boasts impressive profit margins. As the poem progresses, it advocates for abandoning traditional occupations in favor of hawking, portraying it as a more rewarding and enjoyable pursuit. The imagery of donning tweeds and leaving behind moleskins symbolizes a shift in identity and aspirations, appealing to both honest individuals and rogues alike to join in the hawking venture. Overall, the work captures the spirit of entrepreneurship and the allure of a life filled with adventure and profit, celebrating the hawker's role in the Australian landscape.

By Andrew Barton Paterson · First published 1930 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Social Commentary · 457 words

First lines

(Air: "Bow, Wow, Wow. ")

Now, shut your mouths, you loafers all, You vex me with your twaddle, You own a nag or big or small, A bridle and a saddle; I you advise at once be wise And waste no time in talking, Procure some bags of damaged rags And make your fortune hawking.

What this Textopian page supports

Hawking is listed on Textopian as a poem by Andrew Barton Paterson, dated 1930 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Andrew Barton Paterson
Date: 1930 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Humor, Social Commentary, Australian Literature, Narrative
Length: 457 words
Structure: 1 section, 11 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is structured in verse with rhythmic and lyrical qualities, characteristic of poetry.
Humor — The poem employs a light-hearted tone and comedic elements, particularly in its portrayal of hawking as an easy and profitable endeavor.
Social Commentary — The poem reflects on the lives of various social classes and occupations, critiquing societal norms and the value of work.
Australian Literature — The themes and setting are rooted in Australian culture, particularly the experiences of bushmen and stockmen.