The Plains of Riverine by Andrew Barton Paterson
The narrative unfolds in a rural setting, celebrating a year of prosperity and abundance in the agricultural community. The speaker conveys optimistic news about the squatters' decision to pay their dues willingly, reflecting a sense of unity and shared success among the settlers. The environment is depicted as flourishing, with ample rainfall nourishing the land, leading to vibrant vegetation and wildlife. The community's joy is palpable as they anticipate a bountiful harvest, with references to the camaraderie among teamsters and the excitement of plowing the fertile plains. The arrival of newcomers from various regions is welcomed, emphasizing inclusivity and the collective spirit of the settlers. The speaker highlights the significance of this year, marked by the Jubilee, and the importance of hard work and dedication in achieving their goals. The poem captures the essence of rural life, intertwining themes of community, nature, and the challenges faced by those in the agricultural sector. It reflects on the balance between labor and reward, underscoring the resilience of the pioneers as they navigate the complexities of their livelihoods. The imagery evokes a sense of nostalgia and pride in their heritage, celebrating the land and the bonds formed within the community.
By Andrew Barton Paterson · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Australian Literature, Pastoral · 812 words
First lines
I have come to tell you of the glorious news you'll all be / glad to bear, / Of the pleasant alterations that are taking place this year. / So kindly pay attention, and I'll pass the whisper round, / The squatters of their own free will this year will pay the / pound.
For this is a year of great prosperity, that everybody knows, / We'll take no top knots off this year, nor trim them to the / toes, / But a level cut for a level pound, and the rations thrown / in free. / That's how the squatters say they'll keep their Sovereign's / Jubilee.
What this Textopian page supports
The Plains of Riverine is listed on Textopian as a poem by Andrew Barton Paterson, dated 1917 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: 1917 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Australian Literature, Pastoral, Narrative, Humor
- Length: 812 words
- Structure: 1 section, 13 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Plains of Riverine by Andrew Barton Paterson
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Australian Literature — The themes and setting reflect Australian culture, particularly rural life and the experiences of squatters.
- Pastoral — The poem depicts rural life, nature, and agricultural themes, typical of pastoral literature.
- Narrative — The poem tells a story about the prosperity and experiences of the squatters in Riverine.
Tags
Australian poetry · Andrew Barton Paterson · Riverine · squatters · prosperity · agriculture · teamsters · nature · wildlife · community · celebration · Jubilee