A Kangaroo Shoot by Rolf Boldrewood
The narrative unfolds in a rural Australian setting, where the protagonist reflects on the mild winter weather and the agricultural activities of the region. The community is engaged in a kangaroo drive, a necessary measure to control the burgeoning kangaroo population that threatens local crops. This event serves both as a means of pest control and a social gathering, providing an opportunity for recreation amidst the isolation of country life. As the participants prepare for the drive, they exhibit a mix of excitement and trepidation, sharing stories of past hunting experiences and the dangers involved. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation as they take their positions along a line of trees, ready to shoot the kangaroos driven towards them by beaters. The hunt begins with the sound of galloping kangaroos, and the hunters fire their weapons, resulting in a chaotic yet exhilarating scene. The narrative explores themes of survival and the moral implications of hunting. The hunters justify their actions as necessary for their livelihood, viewing the kangaroos as a threat to their sheep and crops. The protagonist reflects on the broader implications of such extermination, drawing parallels to historical conflicts between different human races. The hunt culminates in a successful day, with the participants gathering their kills and enjoying a picnic lunch, celebrating their camaraderie and the thrill of the hunt. As the day concludes, the hunters return home, satisfied with their efforts. The evening features a festive dinner and a dance, reinforcing the social bonds formed through the day's activities. The story ultimately highlights the duality of human nature—capable of both destruction and joy—while questioning the ethics of their actions in the context of nature and survival. The gathering, while centered on the grim task of hunting, becomes a celebration of community and shared experiences, leaving the reader to ponder the complexities of life in the Australian bush.
By Rolf Boldrewood · First published 1890 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Adventure, Historical Fiction · 2,212 words
First lines
Another month has passed. The calendar shows that the midwinter is over, and still the much-dreaded New England cold season has not asserted itself. Such weather as we have had in this last week of June has been mild and reassuring. Certes, there have been days when the western blast bit shrewdly keen, and ordinary garments afforded scant protection. In the coming spring there may be wrathful gales, sleet and hail-snow, even. We must not 'hollo till we are out of the wood.'
What this Textopian page supports
A Kangaroo Shoot is listed on Textopian as a short story by Rolf Boldrewood, dated 1890 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Rolf Boldrewood
- Date: 1890 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Adventure, Historical Fiction, Nature Writing, Satire
- Length: 2,212 words
- Structure: 1 section, 22 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Kangaroo Shoot by Rolf Boldrewood
- 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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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering A Kangaroo Shoot?
- How does this short story by Rolf Boldrewood fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Literary Fiction — The narrative explores complex themes of nature, society, and morality through detailed descriptions and character interactions.
- Adventure — The plot centers around a kangaroo shoot, involving action, excitement, and the thrill of the hunt.
- Historical Fiction — The setting reflects historical aspects of Australian rural life and customs during the time period.
- Nature Writing — The text includes vivid descriptions of the Australian landscape and wildlife, emphasizing the relationship between humans and nature.
Tags
Australia · bush · hunting · kangaroo · adventure · nature · wildlife · colonial · exploration · landscape · culture · rural