Digger Smith by C.J. Dennis (1913)
The narrative follows a character known as Digger Smith, a soldier who returns home after serving in the war, albeit with a significant physical injury—he is described as "only 'arf a man." The story begins with another character recounting the arrival of Smith at a farm owned by a man named Flood. Smith's demeanor is cheerful and unbothered despite his circumstances, which intrigues the narrator. As the narrator investigates, he discovers that Smith has a history with Flood from their time in France, where Flood had helped him. Smith's promise to assist on the farm upon his return is a central theme, highlighting themes of loyalty and camaraderie. The narrator's initial skepticism about Smith's intentions shifts to acceptance as he learns more about Smith's character and the bond he shares with Flood. The story captures the warmth of homecoming, familial relationships, and the struggles of returning soldiers adjusting to civilian life. Smith's resilience and good humor in the face of adversity serve as a poignant reminder of the human spirit's capacity to endure and find joy, even after the ravages of war. The narrative concludes with a sense of belonging and community, as Smith is welcomed back with open arms.
By C.J. Dennis · First published 1913 · Genre: Poetry, War, Historical · 1,361 words
First lines
'E CALLS me Digger; that's 'ow 'e begins. 'E sez 'e's only 'arf a man; an' grins. Judged be 'is nerve, I'd say 'e was worth two Uv me an' you. Then 'e digs 'arf a fag out uv 'is vest, Borrers me matches, an' I gives 'im best.
The first I 'eard about it Poole told me. "There is a bloke called Smith at Flood's," sez 'e; Come there this mornin', sez 'e's come to stay, An' won't go 'way. Sez 'e was sent there be a pal named Flood; An' talks uv contracts sealed with Flanders mud.
What this Textopian page supports
Digger Smith is listed on Textopian as a short story by C.J. Dennis, dated 1913 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: C.J. Dennis
- Date: 1913 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, War, Historical
- Length: 1,361 words
- Structure: 1 section, 16 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Digger Smith 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
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Digger Smith?
- How does this short story by C.J. Dennis fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- A Diggers Tale by C. J. Dennis
- The Tin Pot Mill by Edward Dyson
- The March by C. J. Dennis
- Jim by C. J. Dennis
- Spike Wegg by C. J. Dennis
- The Australaise by C. J. Dennis
Genres
- Poetry — The book is a collection of poems that weave a narrative about its titular character.
- War — A majority of the book's plot, and the main character's experiences are centered around the events of World War I.
- Historical — The story unfolds during and after World War I and offers perspectives on the war's impact on society and the individual's life.
Tags
Australian literature · poetry · humor · rural life · character study · working class · satire · identity · friendship · community · nature · language