The Boys out There by C.J. Dennis
The work explores the complex emotions and experiences of soldiers returning from war, particularly focusing on their reluctance to share the true nature of their experiences. Through the voice of a narrator, it reflects on conversations with veterans who, despite their bravery and accomplishments, often remain silent about the horrors of battle. The piece delves into the naivety of young recruits, who are inspired by glorified tales of heroism and valor, unaware of the grim realities they will face. It emphasizes the contrast between the romanticized view of war taught in schools and the harsh truths encountered in combat. The narrative also touches on the legacy of resilience passed down through generations, highlighting the sacrifices made by ancestors who settled in a new land. It suggests that the soldiers possess an innate courage shaped by their upbringing and the challenges faced by their forebears. Ultimately, the work grapples with the idea of an unpayable debt owed to those who have served, acknowledging that while society may offer praise and recognition, the true cost of war is far greater and cannot be fully repaid. The piece captures the essence of camaraderie, sacrifice, and the profound transformation that occurs in those who have faced the trials of war.
By C.J. Dennis · First published 1918 · Genre: Poetry, War, Historical · 1,117 words
First lines
"WHY do they do it? I dunno," Sez Digger Smith. "Yeh got me beat. Some uv the yarns yeh 'ear is true, An' some is rather umptydoo, An' some is -- indiscreet. But them that don't get to the crowd, Them is the ones would make yeh proud."
With Digger Smith an' other blokes 'Oo 'ave returned it's much the same They'll talk uv wot they've seen an' done When they've been out to 'ave their fun; But no word uv the game. On fights an' all the tale uv blood Their talk, as they remark, is dud.
What this Textopian page supports
The Boys out There is listed on Textopian as a novel by C.J. Dennis, dated 1918 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: C.J. Dennis
- Date: 1918 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, War, Historical, Anthology
- Length: 1,117 words
- Structure: 1 section, 14 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Boys out There 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 The Boys out There?
- How does this novel by C.J. Dennis fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Hard Luck by Andrew Barton Paterson
- Father Rileys Horse by Andrew Barton Paterson
- The Bridge Across The Crick by C. J. Dennis
- Bottle O by Andrew Barton Paterson
- Hay And Hell And Booligal by Andrew Barton Paterson
- Spike Wegg by C. J. Dennis
Genres
- Poetry — The book is a collection of poems by renowned Australian poet C.J. Dennis.
- War — The poems in this book describe the experiences of soldiers during World War I.
- Historical — Through its depiction of World War I, the book offers insights into a specific historical period.
- Anthology — The book is made up of a collection of standalone yet thematically linked poems.
Tags
Australian literature · poetry · humor · rural life · friendship · community · nature · nostalgia · life lessons · adventure · masculinity · social commentary