ABPA - Australian Bush Poets Association

The Big Dry


The day was dry and steamy hot
the dust swirled all around.
The blistering summers sun
sucked all the moisture from the ground.

Into the country pub I strode
my aching thirst at last to quench.
The regulars at the bar sat
like crows along a fence.

I downed the first beer quickly
then I settled on a stool.
The second beer went just as fast
so icy cold and cool.

There was a stockman sitting next to me
so I turned and caught his eye.
To start the conversation
I said "Gees mate ain't it dry?'.

Dry ! I'll say its bloody dry
came back the quick reply.
He took another swig of stout
then looked me in the eye.

'Yes mate, he said it's dry all right"
his expression pale and grim.
"We've got frogs out here near five years old
and they've never learnt to bloody swim".

Bob Pacey ( C )

Good to see you back Bobbo.

Better work on your syntax Bob before Neville sees it!

my aching thirst at last to quench.

I had my tax done today ??????


Duh Bob

Oh Heather, so sorry but I actually think that the line you mentioned works in that style of ballad

I think there's a couple of other lines where the rhythm needs revision, but I won't spoil the fun.

I like it Bob, the good old bumptious ballad.

Actually there's a serious note, I believe that the presence of frogs is a significant pointer to environmental health.

I wrote this back in 2002 Nev and nothing has changed at least not until I got involved with you lot.


Comments are always appreciated so go for it Nev.


Bob.

They're a picky mob aren't they Bob, I like it.

Cheers mate,

Terry

Good one Bob. One of the good things about the audio section on the forum, is getting to hear the poets voice, so when you read a piece like this, you can actually hear that persons voice in your head reciting it. This was something that came through loud and clear as I was reading.

Cheers
Sue

Thanks Heather Jane, Nev and Terry and Sue.

Had a fella do a video of me the other Sunday and he wants to post it on u tube. Will see when I view it.


Yes Neville I'm a big believer in the frogs mean a healthy enviroment.

Toads now thats another story.


Bob