To Show what a Man can Do by Henry Lawson
The narrative centers on a courageous individual who undertakes perilous rescues during a maritime disaster. The protagonist, a fisherman, demonstrates exceptional bravery and skill when a lifeboat fails to reach a wreck. Despite the dangers, he rows out in a small boat, risking his life to save others. His repeated attempts to navigate the treacherous waters highlight his determination and selflessness. The work reflects on the nature of heroism, emphasizing that true valor often goes unnoticed. It contrasts the grand deeds of history with the quiet, personal sacrifices made by ordinary individuals. The fisherman embodies the spirit of resilience and courage, showcasing what one person can achieve against overwhelming odds. The poem serves as a tribute to unsung heroes, suggesting that such acts of bravery are essential for inspiring hope and strength in society. It calls for recognition of these deeds, asserting that they are vital to maintaining the human spirit. The moral underscores the importance of confidence and action in the face of adversity, reinforcing the idea that anyone can rise to the occasion when needed. Ultimately, the work celebrates the human capacity for bravery and the impact of individual actions in the broader context of community and survival.
By Henry Lawson · First published 1902 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Narrative · 386 words
First lines
"He has rowed to a wreck when the lifeboat failed, with Jim in a crazy boat. / -- From "The Bill of the Ages", World's News
There has been many a grander deed since man had life to give, / And thousands have gone to certain death, eyes open, that men might live; / And many have gone for their country's sake, when their numbers were all too few, / And bravely died that their mates may die -- to show what a man can do.
Similar titles
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- The Stranded Ship by Henry Lawson
- For Australia by Henry Lawson
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and imagery typical of poetry.
- Inspirational — The themes focus on bravery, heroism, and the human spirit, aiming to inspire readers.
- Narrative — The poem tells a story of a man's courageous actions during a crisis.
- Australian Literature — The setting and cultural references are specific to Australia, reflecting its literary tradition.
Tags
courage · bravery · heroism · sacrifice · rescue · fisherman · lifeboat · adventure · determination · skill · strength · perseverance
What this Textopian page supports
To Show what a Man can Do is listed on Textopian as a short story 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: Short story
- Author: Henry Lawson
- Date: 1902 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Inspirational, Narrative, Australian Literature, Adventure
- Length: 386 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for To Show what a Man can Do by Henry Lawson
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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