The Other Gum
The Other Gum - context Summary
Lawson's Poetic Skirmish
A short, satirical retort aimed at a fellow poet or critic, the poem stages Lawson’s defense amid contemporary literary squabbles. He mocks anonymous sneers, insists he targets genuine faults rather than friends, and uses the Australian image of a possum up “the other gum” to suggest the antagonist has misdirected attacks. It reflects Lawson’s engagement in personal and public poetic debates of his day.
Read Complete AnalysesWell Boory, I have read your grin, And listened to your whine; I only wish you’d sent it in Before I printed mine. You see, I never meant to hit The new-chum Jackaroo; I only tried to write a skit On poets – such as you. We’re sinners all – the world knows that, But damned mean sinners some – (The ‘possum you are barking at is up the other gum). But sneer in safety if you choose I’ve no hand in the game; I will not fight the crawlers who’s Afraid to sign his name. I never strike without a mark – ‘Tis safer in the end; For he who hits back in the dark Might chance to hurt a ‘friend’! The game is stale, your jokes are flat, You might as well be dumb – (The ‘possum you are howling at Is up another gum).
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