Cow by C.J. Dennis (1939)
The work presents a humorous and satirical exploration of rural life, focusing on the significance of cows in agricultural society. The narrator expresses disdain for conventional poetry and romanticized themes, asserting that the true subject worthy of celebration is the cow. Through a series of verses, the narrator extols the virtues of cows, emphasizing their economic value and the practical benefits they provide, such as milk and butter. The tone is colloquial and irreverent, reflecting the narrator's working-class background. He dismisses the frivolities of high culture and instead champions the cow as a source of sustenance and livelihood. The narrator recounts personal experiences, illustrating a transformation from a reckless spender to a thrifty individual who recognizes the importance of cattle in achieving financial stability. The work also critiques societal norms and education, suggesting that traditional schooling is unnecessary for practical success. The narrator's interactions with family members reveal a blend of frustration and affection, highlighting the challenges of rural life and the responsibilities of parenthood. Overall, the piece is a celebration of the cow as an essential element of rural existence, blending humor with social commentary on the values of hard work, practicality, and the often-overlooked significance of agricultural life.
By C.J. Dennis · First published 1939 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Social Commentary · 1,322 words
First lines
Aw, go write yer tinklin' jingle, an' yer pretty phrases mingle, Fer the mamby-pamby girl, all fluffy frill an' shinin' silk. Them's the sort ter fetch yer trouble, when yer tries 'em, in the double. Blow yer beauty! Wot's the matter with the maiden 'oo kin milk? Them there rhymers uv the wattle! An' the bardlet uv the bottle - 'Im that sings uv sparklin' wine, an' does a perish fer the beer; An' yer slap-dash 'orsey po-it! Garn! If you blokes only know it, You 'ave missed the single subjec' fit ter rhyme about down 'ere. An' although I ain't a bard, with bloomin' bays upon me brow, I kinsider that it's up ter me ter sing about The Cow.
What this Textopian page supports
Cow is listed on Textopian as a poem by C.J. Dennis, dated 1939 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: C.J. Dennis
- Date: 1939 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Humor, Social Commentary, Australian Literature, Narrative
- Length: 1,322 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Cow by C.J. Dennis
- 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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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and rhythm characteristic of poetry.
- Humor — The poem uses satire and comedic elements to critique societal norms and behaviors.
- Social Commentary — It reflects on themes of capitalism, labor, and social class through the lens of rural life.
- Australian Literature — The poem is rooted in Australian culture and vernacular, showcasing local themes and dialect.
Tags
poetry · Australian literature · humor · animal · farm life · nature · rural · satire · cattle · personification · narrative · lyrical