Years after the War in Australia
The novel explores the struggles of a returned soldier who has been physically and emotionally scarred by his experiences during World War I. He returns to Australia with a sense of disillusionment and disconnection from society, struggling to adjust to civilian life. As he navigates his new reality, he grapples with feelings of guilt, shame, and anger towards the world that seems to have moved on without him. His relationships with family and friends are strained, and he finds himself increasingly isolated and disconnected from those around him. Through the soldier's story, the novel critiques the societal attitudes towards veterans and the lack of support for those returning from war. It highlights the psychological trauma and emotional scars that many soldiers carried back home, and the difficulties they faced in reintegrating into society. The novel is a powerful exploration of the human cost of war and the need for greater understanding and support for those affected by it.
By Henry Lawson · First published 1915 · Genre: War Poetry, Australian Literature, Historical Fiction · 1,570 words
First lines
The big rough boys from the runs out back were first where the balls flew free, And yelled in the slang of the Outside Track: ‘By God, it's a Christmas spree! ' ‘It's not too rusty' -- and ‘Wool away! -- stand clear of the blazing shoots! ' -- ‘Sheep O! Sheep O! ' -- ‘We'll cut out to-day' -- ‘Look out for the boss's boots! ' -- ‘What price the tally in camp to-night! ' -- ‘What price the boys Out Back! ' -- ‘Go it, you tigers, for Right or Might and the pride of the Outside Track! ' -- ‘Needle and thread! ' -- ‘I have broke my comb! ' -- ‘Now ride, you flour-bags, ride! ' -- ‘Fight for your mates and the folk at home! ' -- ‘Here's for the Lachlan side! ' Those men of the West would sneer and scoff at the gates of hell ajar, And oft the sight of a head cut off was hailed by a yell for ‘Tar!'
What this Textopian page supports
Years after the War in Australia is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry Lawson, dated 1915 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: 1915 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: War Poetry, Australian Literature, Historical Fiction, Adventure, Realism
- Length: 1,570 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Years after the War in Australia 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 Years after the War in Australia?
- How does this poem by Henry Lawson fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does War Poetry first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- War Poetry — The text is a poem that vividly describes scenes of battle, camaraderie, and the aftermath of war, focusing on the experiences of soldiers.
- Australian Literature — The setting and characters are distinctly Australian, with references to the bush, local slang, and cultural elements unique to Australia.
- Historical Fiction — The narrative is set in a historical context, reflecting on past wars and the impact on those involved, blending historical elements with fictionalized accounts.
- Adventure — The poem includes themes of adventure and bravery, with characters engaging in daring acts and facing challenges head-on.
Tags
Australian Literature · War Fiction · Post-War Era · Social Commentary · Realism · Regionalism · National Identity · Colonial History · Societal Change · Cultural Shift · Historical Fiction · Coming of Age