Somewhere up in Queensland
The narrative explores the theme of longing and nostalgia through the lens of individuals who have ventured to Queensland, a place imbued with both mystery and familiarity. The speaker reflects on the stories passed down from older generations about relatives who have gone to Queensland, suggesting a sense of adventure and opportunity. However, as the poem progresses, it becomes evident that the romanticized notion of Queensland is juxtaposed with the mundane realities of life there. The repeated phrases emphasize the uncertainty surrounding the true nature of these journeys. The characters are depicted as drovers, explorers, and salesmen, indicating that their pursuits may not align with the grand adventures imagined by their families. The speaker highlights the disconnect between the idealized past and the present, where the once vibrant tales of exploration have faded into a more prosaic existence. The poem also touches on themes of loss and separation, as many individuals who venture to Queensland seem to lose touch with their roots. The mention of "black sheep" and uncommunicative wanderers suggests a deeper emotional undercurrent, where families are left to grapple with the absence of their loved ones. The impact of these departures is felt in the hearts of mothers and sweethearts, who are left behind, yearning for connection. Ultimately, the work captures the complexities of migration and the bittersweet nature of memory, illustrating how the allure of new beginnings can often lead to a sense of dislocation and longing for home. The portrayal of Queensland serves as a metaphor for both opportunity and estrangement, reflecting the duality of human experience in the face of change.
By Henry Lawson · First published 1892 · Genre: Poetry, Australian Literature, Narrative · 425 words
First lines
HE'S somewhere up in Queensland, The old folks used to say; He's somewhere up in Queensland, The people say to-day. But Somewhere (up in Queensland) That uncle used to know -- That filled our hearts with wonder, Seems vanished long ago.
He's gone to Queensland, droving, The old folks used to say; He's gone to Queensland, droving, The people say to-day. But "gone to Queensland, droving," Might mean, in language plain, He follows stock in buggies, And gets supplies by train.
What this Textopian page supports
Somewhere up in Queensland 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, Australian Literature, Narrative, Lyric, Regional Literature
- Length: 425 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
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Similar titles
- The Overlander by Andrew Barton Paterson
- Before We Were Married by Henry Lawson
- Till All The Bad Things Came Untrue by Henry Lawson
- The Maranoa Drovers by Andrew Barton Paterson
- The Bard Of Furthest Out by Henry Lawson
- For All The Land To See by Henry Lawson
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and rhythm.
- Australian Literature — The poem reflects themes and settings specific to Australian culture and landscape, particularly Queensland.
- Narrative — The poem tells a story about individuals and their experiences related to Queensland.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal feelings and emotions related to longing and nostalgia.
Tags
Queensland · Henry Lawson · poetry · Australian literature · nostalgia · exploration · droving · roving · family · home · longing · bush life