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Henry Lawson: A life by Colin Roderick

by
July 1991, no. 132

Henry Lawson: A life by Colin Roderick

Angus & Robertson, $39.95 hb, 447pp, 0 207 15773 1

Henry Lawson: A life by Colin Roderick

by
July 1991, no. 132

Henry Lawson’s death prompted a torrent of lamentation and, despite the distaste of academics and critics, the poet was soon enshrined as a National Treasure. Colin Roderick’s biography is a monument of dedication to the poet.

Harry Peckman, veteran coachman and poet of the scenic wonders of the Blue Mountains, publicly farewelled his friend Henry Lawson in practised balladic strains on 22 September 1922:

‘Tis only two short months ago,
Since last you clasped my hand,
 Recalled sweet memories of the past,
And future meetings planned.

But wiser Counsel has decreed
That we no more shall meet,
On this our native golden soil
That smiled beneath your feet.

Alas! your gifted pen lies still,
And hushed your mortal frame,
Australia’s lost a singer sweet,
A poet crowned with fame.


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Michael Sharkey reviews 'Henry Lawson: A life' by Colin Roderick

Henry Lawson: A life

by Colin Roderick

Angus & Robertson, $39.95 hb, 447pp, 0 207 15773 1

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