Francis Kenna

Francis Kenna was an Australian poet, journalist, and politician, born in Maryborough, Queensland. He served as a member of the Queensland Legislative Assembly. He contributed to various publications, including The Bulletin, and was associated with the Jindyworobak Movement which aimed to promote native Australian culture. Kenna's works often reflected Australian nationalistic themes and explored the country's rural life.

September 21, 1865

June 23, 1932

English

Francis Kenna

Banjo, Of The Overflow

I had written him a letter which I had for want of better
Knowledge given to a partner by the name of "Greenhide Jack ",
He was shearing when I met him, and I thought perhaps I'd let him
Know that I was "stiff," and, maybe, he would send a trifle back.

My request was not requited, for an answer came indited
On a sheet of scented paper, in an ink of fancy blue;
And the envelope, I fancy, had an "Esquire" to the Clancy
And it simply read, "I'm busy; but I'll see what I can do!"

* * * * *

To the vision land I can go, and I often think of "Banjo",
Of the boy I used to shepherd in the not so long ago,
He was not the bushman's kidney, and among the crowds of Sydney
He'll be more at home than mooning on the dreary Overflow.

He has clients now to fee him, and...

Francis Kenna