Foreword by Harry Graham (1907)

Name: Foreword
Author: Harry Graham

The work presents a perspective from a common working man who expresses skepticism about political promises regarding trade and immigration. He acknowledges the allure of shutting out foreign goods but highlights the essential imports that sustain daily life, such as sugar, rice, and tea, which cannot be produced domestically. The speaker argues that restricting foreign imports would ultimately harm British labor by reducing trade opportunities and wages. He emphasizes the interconnectedness of global trade, asserting that the more goods are exchanged, the more jobs are created for British workers. The speaker is wary of political rhetoric that prioritizes nationalism over economic reality, insisting that his primary concern is job security and fair wages. He rejects the notion of risking employment for uncertain benefits, advocating for a pragmatic approach to trade that recognizes the necessity of foreign goods while supporting local labor. The work critiques simplistic nationalist sentiments and underscores the importance of economic interdependence, ultimately portraying the working man's desire for stability and prosperity in a complex global economy.

By Harry Graham · First published 1907 · Genre: Poetry, Political Satire, Social Commentary · 645 words

First lines

I'm only a common workin'-man, With a eye to my vittles an' beer, But afore I puts my money on Joe, There's a thing or two as I'd like to know, Which 'e 'asn't a-made quite clear.

I admit as it sounds attractive-like For to shut them furriners out, But every Board School nipper knows As there's things wot only a furriner grows As we couldn't well do without.

What this Textopian page supports

Foreword is listed on Textopian as a poem by Harry Graham, dated 1907 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Harry Graham
Date: 1907 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Political Satire, Social Commentary, Realism
Length: 645 words
Structure: 1 section, 11 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The text is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
Political Satire — The poem critiques political ideas and policies, using humor and irony to convey its message.
Social Commentary — The poem addresses social and economic issues faced by the working class, reflecting on trade and labor.
Realism — The poem presents a realistic portrayal of the concerns and perspectives of a working-class individual.