Shearer’s Song
Shearer’s Song - meaning Summary
Loyalty Amid Itinerant Life
This short song presents a shearer at season's end reflecting on pay and the rowdy celebrations that follow. He resists the temptations of the shanties because his partner Annie waits "far down the Murray." The poem frames loyalty and prudence against itinerant labor and temporary pleasures. The speaker’s priorities are clear: remain faithful, keep a clear head, and save enough provisions and money to support Annie through the year.
Read Complete AnalysesThe season is over; The shearing is done; The wages are paid; and The ‘sprees’ have begun. But never a shanty Gets sight of my cheques; For far down the Murray My Annie expects A heart that is faithful, A head that is clear, And sufficient provisions To last for a year.
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