The Sliprails and the Spur
The story revolves around a young man who returns to his rural home after years away and becomes embroiled in a conflict between the local community and a group of outsiders who are trying to exploit the land for their own gain. The protagonist's relationships with his family and friends are put to the test as he navigates this complex situation, ultimately leading to a confrontation that has far-reaching consequences.
By Henry Lawson · First published 1898 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Pastoral · 322 words
First lines
The colours of the setting sun Withdrew across the Western land -- He raised the sliprails, one by one, And shot them home with trembling hand; Her brown hands clung -- her face grew pale -- Ah! quivering chin and eyes that brim! -- One quick, fierce kiss across the rail, And, 'Good-bye, Mary! ' 'Good-bye, Jim!'
_Oh, he rides hard to race the pain Who rides from love, who rides from home; But he rides slowly home again, Whose heart has learnt to love and roam._
What this Textopian page supports
The Sliprails and the Spur is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry Lawson, dated 1898 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: 1898 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Pastoral, Tragedy
- Length: 322 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Sliprails and the Spur 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 Sliprails and the Spur?
- 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, utilizing rhyme and meter to convey its narrative and emotional depth.
- Romance — The central theme revolves around a romantic relationship and the emotional turmoil of separation.
- Pastoral — The setting and imagery are deeply connected to rural life and the natural landscape, emphasizing the simplicity and beauty of the countryside.
- Tragedy — The narrative explores themes of loss, longing, and unfulfilled love, which are characteristic of tragic storytelling.
Tags
Australian Literature · Short Story Collection · Outback Fiction · Rural Life · Poverty · Social Realism · Working Class · Labor Movement · Farming Community · Isolation · Loneliness · Disillusionment