Notes on Australianisms Page #2

"Notes on Australianisms" by Henry Lawson is a fascinating exploration of the unique language and colloquialisms that characterize Australian English. Written by one of Australia’s most celebrated writers, the work delves into the idiosyncrasies of Australian speech, highlighting its humor, creativity, and cultural significance. Through witty observations and anecdotes, Lawson captures the essence of Australian identity, showcasing how language both reflects and shapes the experiences of the nation’s people. The book is a valuable resource for linguists, historians, and anyone interested in the rich tapestry of Australian culture.

• Short story

								

 stoush: a fight
 strike: perhaps the Shearers' strike in Barcaldine, Queensland, 1891 [gjc]
 sundowner: a swagman (see) who is NOT looking for work, but a
   “handout”.  Lawson explains the term as referring to someone who
   turns up at a station at sundown, just in time for “tea” i.e. the
   evening meal.  In view of the Great Depression of the time, these
   expressions of attitude are probably unfair, but the attitudes are
   common enough even today.
 Surry Hills: Sydney inner suburb (home for this transcriber)
 swagman (swaggy):  Generally, anyone who is walking in the “outback”
    with  a swag. (See “The Romance of the Swag” in Children of the
   Bush, also a PG Etext) Lawson also restricts it at times to those
   whom he  considers to be tramps, not looking for work but for
   “handouts”.  See 'travellers'.
 'swelp: mild oath of affirmation = “so help me [God]”

 travellers:  “shearers and rouseabouts travelling for work” (Lawson).

 whare: small Maori house--is it used here for European equivalent?
   Help anyone?
 whipping the cat: drunk
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