Corny Bill by Henry Lawson (1901)
The story revolves around a young man who returns to his rural home after years away and becomes embroiled in the lives of the local people. He forms a close bond with a woman and her family, but their social differences create tension. The narrative explores themes of class, identity, and the complexities of human relationships.
By Henry Lawson · First published 1901 · Genre: Poetry, Bush Ballad, Narrative · 463 words
First lines
His old clay pipe stuck in his mouth, His hat pushed from his brow, His dress best fitted for the South -- I think I see him now; And when the city streets are still, And sleep upon me comes, I often dream that me an' Bill Are humpin' of our drums.
I mind the time when first I came A stranger to the land; And I was stumped, an' sick, an' lame When Bill took me in hand. Old Bill was what a chap would call A friend in poverty, And he was very kind to all, And very good to me.
What this Textopian page supports
Corny Bill is listed on Textopian as a poem 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: Poem
- Author: Henry Lawson
- Date: 1901 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Bush Ballad, Narrative, Folk, Realism
- Length: 463 words
- Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Corny Bill by Henry Lawson
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Bush Ballad — The themes and style reflect the traditional Australian bush ballad, focusing on rural life and characters.
- Narrative — The poem tells a story about the life and experiences of Corny Bill, making it narrative in nature.
- Folk — The content and style are reminiscent of folk tales, celebrating the life of a common man in a rural setting.
Tags
Australian literature · Short story collection · Humor · Satire · Social commentary · Rural life · Outback · Bushmen · Sheep farming · Working class · Poverty · Exploitation