A Dan Yell by Henry Lawson (1892)
The poem reflects on the transformation of a character named Dan O'Connor, who has undergone a significant change by shaving his beard and altering his appearance. The speaker expresses regret over meeting a woman who has brought this change to light, lamenting the loss of Dan's former self, which was vibrant and full of life. The speaker reminisces about the lively atmosphere that Dan once contributed to, highlighting how his absence has diminished the joy and humor in their community. The poem captures a sense of nostalgia for the past, where Dan's presence was synonymous with laughter and camaraderie. The speaker notes that Dan's new clean-shaven look has stripped away the essence of his character, leading to a collective mourning among those who once celebrated his quirks and humor. The references to various locations and the impact of Dan's change on the local culture emphasize the broader implications of personal transformation on community dynamics. As the poem progresses, the speaker's tone shifts from lamentation to a plea for Dan to return to his former self, suggesting that the community longs for the joy and authenticity that Dan's beard symbolized. The closing lines encapsulate a desire for reconnection and a return to the past, underscoring the theme of identity and the significance of personal choices on communal relationships. The work ultimately serves as a commentary on how individual changes can resonate deeply within a community, affecting shared experiences and collective memory.
By Henry Lawson · First published 1892 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Australian Literature · 444 words
First lines
I wish I'd never gone to board In that house where I met The touring lady from abroad, Who mocks my nightmares yet. I wish -- I wish that she had saved Her news of what she'd seen -- That Dan O'Connor is clean shaved And parts his hair between.
The ladies down at Manly now -- And widows understood -- No more deplore their marriage vow Or hopeless widowhood. For Dan O'Connor is the same As though he'd never been, Since Daniel shaved that shave of shame, And combed his hair between.
What this Textopian page supports
A Dan Yell is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry Lawson, dated 1892 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Henry Lawson
- Date: 1892 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Humor, Australian Literature, Social Commentary, Lyric
- Length: 444 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Humor — The poem uses satire and wit to comment on social norms and personal experiences, reflecting a humorous tone.
- Australian Literature — The poem reflects Australian culture and identity, particularly through its references to local figures and settings.
- Social Commentary — The poem critiques societal expectations and norms, particularly regarding masculinity and public persona.
Tags
Australian literature · short stories · bush life · rural themes · working class · identity · struggles · friendship · community · courage · adventure · nature