An Oversight of Steelman's by Henry Lawson
The story revolves around a young man who returns to his rural home after years away and becomes embroiled in a conflict with the local community over land rights and social justice. He clashes with the town's wealthy elite, who are determined to maintain their power and control over the land. The protagonist's actions spark a chain reaction of events that ultimately lead to a violent confrontation between the two groups.
By Henry Lawson · First published 1901 · Genre: Adventure, Humor, Drama · 2,443 words
First lines
Steelman and Smith -- professional wanderers -- were making back for Wellington, down through the wide and rather dreary-looking Hutt Valley. They were broke. They carried their few remaining belongings in two skimpy, amateurish-looking swags. Steelman had fourpence left. They were very tired and very thirsty -- at least Steelman was, and he answered for both. It was Smith's policy to feel and think just exactly as Steelman did. Said Steelman:
What this Textopian page supports
An Oversight of Steelman's is listed on Textopian as a short story by Henry Lawson, dated 1901 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Henry Lawson
- Date: 1901 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Adventure, Humor, Drama, Social Commentary, Realism
- Length: 2,443 words
- Structure: 1 section, 44 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for An Oversight of Steelman's by Henry Lawson
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Similar titles
- Steelman by Henry Lawson
- Joness Alley by Henry Lawson
- A Day On A Selection by Henry Lawson
- Steelmans Pupil by Henry Lawson
- Hed Come Back by Henry Lawson
- Across The Straits by Henry Lawson
Genres
- Adventure — The story follows the journey of two wanderers, Steelman and Smith, as they navigate challenges and devise plans to survive, characteristic of adventure narratives.
- Humor — The narrative includes humorous elements, particularly in the interactions and schemes of the characters, highlighting the absurdity of their situations.
- Drama — The story explores the struggles and dynamics between the characters, focusing on their personal challenges and relationships.
- Social Commentary — The narrative provides insight into societal issues such as poverty and the human condition, reflecting on the lives of itinerant workers.
Tags
Australian Literature · Short Story Collection · Realism · Social Commentary · Working Class Life · Poverty · Struggle · Survival · Human Condition · Moral Ambiguity · Ethical Dilemmas · Rural Setting