The Poetry Corner

A Job For McGuinness

By Banjo Paterson (Andrew Barton)

Oh, it's dreadful to think in a country like this With its chances for work, and enjoyment That a man like McGuinness was certain to miss Whenever he tried for employment. He wrote to employers from Bondi to Bourke, From Woolloomooloo to Glen Innes, But he found, though his wife could get plenty of work, There was never a job for McGuinness. But perhaps, later on, when the Chow and the Jap Begin to drift down from the tropics, When a big yellow stain spreading over the map Provides some disquieting topics, Oh, it's then when they're wanting a man that will stand In the trench where his own kith and kin is, With a frown on his face and a gun in his hand, Then there might be a job for McGuinness!