A Prouder Man than You
The story revolves around a man who has returned to his hometown after years away, seeking redemption and a chance to prove himself. He's driven by a desire to surpass the accomplishments of his father, who was once considered a hero in the community. As he navigates his relationships with the townspeople, particularly a woman who is initially resistant to his charms, he struggles to reconcile his past mistakes with his present ambitions. Through his interactions, it becomes clear that his pride and sense of self-worth are deeply tied to his ability to outdo others. The narrative explores themes of masculinity, identity, and the complexities of human relationships, raising questions about what it means to be a "prouder man" and whether such a pursuit is ultimately fulfilling.
By Henry Lawson · First published 1900 · Genre: Poetry, Social Commentary, Drama · 282 words
First lines
If you fancy that your people came of better stock than mine, If you hint of higher breeding by a word or by a sign, If you're proud because of fortune or the clever things you do -- Then I'll play no second fiddle: I'm a prouder man than you!
If you think that your profession has the more gentility, And that you are condescending to be seen along with me; If you notice that I'm shabby while your clothes are spruce and new -- You have only got to hint it: I'm a prouder man than you!
What this Textopian page supports
A Prouder Man than You is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry Lawson, dated 1900 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: 1900 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Social Commentary, Drama, Philosophical
- Length: 282 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Prouder Man than You by Henry Lawson
- 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 A Prouder Man than You?
- How does this poem by Henry Lawson fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Old Jimmy Woodser by Henry Lawson
- When The Army Prays For Watty by Henry Lawson
- Board And Residence by Henry Lawson
- Second Class Wait Here by Henry Lawson
- Trouble On The Selection by Henry Lawson
- The Ballad Of The Rouseabout by Henry Lawson
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Social Commentary — The themes address social class distinctions and personal pride, reflecting on societal attitudes.
- Drama — The narrative explores conflict and tension between individuals based on social status and personal pride.
- Philosophical — The work delves into philosophical themes of pride, self-worth, and human relationships.
Tags
Australian Literature · Short Story Collection · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Class Conflict · Rural Life · Outback · Working Class · Poverty · Exploitation · Labor Rights