To an Old Mate by Henry Lawson
The story revolves around a man who has returned to his hometown after years away and reconnects with an old friend. The narrative explores themes of nostalgia, friendship, and the complexities of human relationships.
By Henry Lawson · First published 1908 · Genre: Poetry, Friendship, Nostalgia · 293 words
First lines
Old Mate! In the gusty old weather, When our hopes and our troubles were new, In the years spent in wearing out leather, I found you unselfish and true -- I have gathered these verses together For the sake of our friendship and you.
You may think for awhile, and with reason, Though still with a kindly regret, That I've left it full late in the season To prove I remember you yet; But you'll never judge me by their treason Who profit by friends -- and forget.
I remember, Old Man, I remember -- The tracks that we followed are clear -- The jovial last nights of December, The solemn first days of the year, Long tramps through the clearings and timber, Short partings on platform and pier.
What this Textopian page supports
To an Old Mate is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry Lawson, dated 1908 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: 1908 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Friendship, Nostalgia, Australian Literature, Reflective
- Length: 293 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for To an Old Mate by Henry Lawson
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- An Old Bouquet by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- My Old Friend by James Whitcomb Riley
- My Playmate by John Greenleaf Whittier
- A Reminiscence by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- My Friend by James Whitcomb Riley
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Friendship — The central theme revolves around the bond and memories shared between old friends.
- Nostalgia — The text reflects on past experiences and memories with a sense of longing and reminiscence.
- Australian Literature — The setting and cultural references are indicative of Australian life and experiences.
Tags
Australian literature · Poetry · Friendship · Nostalgia · Sentimental · Melancholic · Autobiographical · Regionalism · Rural life · Outback · Bush poetry · Verse