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"The Songs of a Sentimental Bloke" by C. J. Dennis.

A verse novel which tells the story of Bill, a larrikin of the Little Lonsdale Street push who meets the love of his life, Doreen. Their courtship and marriage sees his transition into a contented husband and father. It is written with a heavy Australian vernacular voice.

THE world 'as got me snouted jist a treat; Crool Forchin's dirty left 'as smote me soul; An' all them joys o' life I 'eld so sweet Is up the pole. Fer, as the poit sez, me 'eart 'as got The pip wiv yearnin' fer—I dunno wot.
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Featured July 2010