AN OLD DESERTED SHACK

AN OLD DESERTED SHACK.

In Australia's harsh outback, stands an old deserted shack,
That once stood proud 'mid fields of wheat and maize.
Then came the longest drought, and the family - they moved out,
No longer could they stay, nor cattle graze.

Packing all that they could carry - no reason left to tarry,
For soil once rich was now just dry and powdered.
It really is a pity, country men must move to city,
For it's not within their nature to be crowded.

Now and then a lonesome swaggie, shirt all torn and trousers baggy,
Will stumble 'cross this once proud old homestead.
And the home will do its best, to give shelter and some rest,
For a weary bloke to stop and lay his head.

There are no locks on doors and no mats upon the floors,
There are signs that many others have been here.
But he doesn't really care if the place is rather bare,
For it's warm and holds the memories of good cheer.

When the Gods above decide that the drought has done its ride,
They will send the rain and bring to life again
This dry and dusty ground and the house the swaggie found,
And the spirit of the outback country men.

In Australia's harsh outback, stands an old deserted shack,
That one day soon will see a family new.
Who will work the dusty land, for they are a stalwart band
Of men and women proudly called "True Blue".


swaggie A man who travels about the country on foot, carrying his possessions in his bedroll or "swag". Hence the name "swagman" or "swaggie".



Written for :- "Project Write World" 




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