The Boss over the Board
The story revolves around a ruthless and cunning businessman who uses his intelligence and charm to manipulate others for personal gain. He is the mastermind behind a series of business deals that ultimately lead to financial ruin for those involved. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that the protagonist's actions are driven by a desire for power and wealth, rather than any genuine interest in helping others. His tactics are ruthless and exploitative, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake. The story is a scathing critique of capitalism and the excesses of the wealthy elite. It highlights the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Throughout the narrative, the author uses vivid imagery and biting satire to expose the hypocrisy and corruption that lies at the heart of the business world. The result is a powerful and thought-provoking tale that challenges readers to question their assumptions about morality and ethics.
By Henry Lawson · First published 1902 · Genre: Poetry, Social Commentary, Realism · 819 words
First lines
When he's over a rough and unpopular shed, With the sins of the bank and the men on his head; When he musn't look black or indulge in a grin, And thirty or forty men hate him like Sin -- I am moved to admit -- when the total is scored -- That it's just a bit off for the Boss-of-the-board. I have battled a lot, But my dream's never soared To the lonely position of Boss-of-the-board.
What this Textopian page supports
The Boss over the Board is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry Lawson, dated 1902 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: 1902 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Social Commentary, Realism, Drama, Australian Literature
- Length: 819 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Boss over the Board 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 The Boss over the Board?
- 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
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Social Commentary — The text explores themes of class struggle, labor relations, and social justice, reflecting on societal issues.
- Realism — The narrative presents a realistic depiction of life in a shearing shed, focusing on everyday experiences and conflicts.
- Drama — The work contains dramatic elements, including conflict and tension between characters, particularly between the boss and the shearers.
Tags
Australian Literature · Fiction · Short Stories · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Class Conflict · Labor Movement · Industrial Relations · Workplace Culture · Management vs Labor · Power Dynamics