Borderland Comments

This poem later became known as "Up The Country"

Eve, there was a series of poems in this "debate", conspired by Henry and Banjo. Dyson and Kenna (a Queensland politician) joined the fray. Kenya's contribution, "Banjo of the Overflow, was the best parody that I have read!

There are four poems in this debate, Francis Kenna, Banjo and Edward Dyson wrote the others. Whilst I think that Banjos poem is good, Lawson had far more experience actually living the hard bush life, having been born in a tent. Interestingly the other two poets tend to agree. I think now we like to romanticise old bush life, but Lawson knew the cold reality.

I have to agree with A.B 'Banjo' Patterson. Read 'In defence of the bush', a poem 'Banjo' wrote in response to this poem by Henry Lawson. Two great Aussie poets; one sees the beauty & humor, the other sees the hardship & pain.