The Men who Made Bad Matches
The work explores the theme of marital discontent and the struggles faced by men who find themselves in unhappy marriages. It presents a collective voice of these men, portraying them as a silent brotherhood who endure the consequences of their choices. The narrative reflects on the historical and universal nature of bad matches, suggesting that such experiences date back to the very beginning of humanity. The poem emphasizes the emotional toll of these relationships, highlighting the disconnect between husbands and wives who lack common ground. It illustrates the façade of happiness that often masks deeper issues, as men suffer in silence while their wives may express discontent openly. The imagery of eyes serves as a powerful symbol of unspoken pain and understanding among those who have made poor marital choices. The work also touches on the impact of these relationships on children, suggesting that the legacy of bad matches can lead to future troubles. It acknowledges the complexity of second marriages, indicating that while they may offer hope, they cannot erase the memories or regrets associated with first unions. Ultimately, the piece conveys a sense of resignation and reflection, as both men and women grapple with the choices of their past and the bittersweet nature of their current lives. It concludes with a note of hope for redemption in a future beyond their current struggles, suggesting that perhaps in another world, the mistakes of the past can be mended.
By Henry Lawson · First published 1903 · Genre: Poetry, Social Commentary, Humor · 674 words
First lines
'TIS the song of many husbands, and you all must understand That you cannot call me coward now that women rule the land; I have written much for women, where I thought that they were right, But the men who made bad matches claim a song from me to-night.
Oh, the men who made bad matches are of every tribe and clime, And, if Adam was the first man, then they date from Adam's time. They shall live and they shall suffer, until married life is past, And the last sad son of Adam stands alone -- at peace at last.
What this Textopian page supports
The Men who Made Bad Matches is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry Lawson, dated 1903 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: 1903 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Social Commentary, Humor, Literary Fiction, Satire
- Length: 674 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Men who Made Bad Matches by Henry Lawson
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Similar titles
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- Keeping His First Wife Now by Henry Lawson
- The Ladies by Rudyard Kipling
- Divorced by Henry Lawson
- My Mother Did So Before Me by Sabine Baring Gould
- The Deterrioration Of Man by Ring Lardner
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Social Commentary — The poem critiques societal norms regarding marriage and relationships, reflecting on the struggles of men in bad matches.
- Humor — The poem uses wit and irony to address the serious topic of marital dissatisfaction, providing a humorous perspective on the plight of men.
- Literary Fiction — The work explores complex themes of love, regret, and societal expectations, typical of literary fiction.
Tags
marriage · relationships · regret · men · women · society · discontent · family · suffering · identity · misunderstanding · loneliness