The narrative follows a bushman named Smith, who is known by the nickname "Got-a-Fag" due to his casual demeanor and frequent requests for a cigarette. He is depicted as a rugged, tough individual with a deep connection to the Australian landscape. As the war begins, he feels restless and decides to enlist, motivated by a sense of adventure and duty. After a long journey to the recruiting station, he presents himself as a capable horseman and is accepted into the military. His transformation from a bushman to a soldier is marked by rigorous training, yet he retains his laid-back attitude and unique way of speaking. His nickname becomes a source of amusement among his peers, and he quickly gains a reputation for his resourcefulness and skills, particularly in handling horses. As the story progresses, he demonstrates his bravery and ingenuity on the battlefield, capturing enemy soldiers using unconventional methods reminiscent of his cattle-droving background. His actions earn him respect, but he remains unfazed by the military hierarchy, continuing to refer to his fellow soldiers in his characteristic manner. The poem concludes with his return to civilian life after the war, where he reflects on his experiences with a sense of nonchalance. He expresses a desire to return to droving, indicating that the excitement of war pales in comparison to the life he knows. Throughout the work, themes of identity, camaraderie, and the contrast between rural life and military service are explored, all conveyed through a blend of humor and rugged realism.
By C.J. Dennis · First published 1940 · Genre: Poetry, War Literature, Australian Literature