Have you ever used poetry instead of making a speech?

Question

I was representing the Head of the Department of Veteran's Affairs in Tasmania (Aus) one time (1996), as she was unable to attend a dinner celebrating the 50th Anniversary of a country-based Returned Serviceman's League (RSL War Veteran's) Club. Since there was nothing to report from the Department I decided in utter panic at the last minute (and I am talking 1 hour before attending the dinner) to write and present a poem instead of a speech. This is what I presented - explanations, of what may be unfamiliar Aussie terms used, appear below.

Has it been 50 years?
by Jellz Fisher 1996

He remembers quite clearly
When he came back from war
How life had changed ‘round him
“Not the same any more!”

How his wife would remind him
With her inimitable charm
“Luv, go join the RSL Club!
Can’t do you no harm!”

She said, “Bloke next door
He’s a member there to.
He is someone you know
And he’ll take care of you.”

Well he plucked up the courage
Put his coat on and hat
Kissed his wife....out the door
And in ten seconds flat!

He headed for town
Past his favourite pub
Passed the baker’s and butcher’s
‘Til he came to “The Club”

But for some funny reason
(And he didn’t know why)
He just sat in his car
Out the front, feeling........shy

It was hard to start mixing
Since the shock of the war
And he felt people ‘round him
Wouldn’t understand any more

A tap on the window
And he looked up and saw
The familiar face
Of the bloke from next door

“Coming in mate?
I owe you a beer
You’re welcome inside
You’ll know most fellas here!”

Blow me down
If he didn’t know all of them there
When he asked “Are you members?”
They all yelled out “yeah!”

Now HE stands at the bar
At the “Digger’s Own Pub”
And fifty years on
He’s still part of the Club

He’s seen lots of changes
Seen mates come and leave
Shared lots of the good times
And has known how to grieve

You’ll see him whenever
It’s his turn to shout
It took a lot to get him in
Now you can’t keep him out!

Legend:
Bloke - Man, Shout - pay for a serve of drinks, Digger - ex soldier,

The expected polite reception in reply to my poem was in fact roof raising applause. They loved it. Right words, right place, right timing, right audience. Sometimes speaking from the heart is the only way to speak.

Answer 1

That took guts. Well said.

Answer 2

it's a bit rough- but that's exactly what vets and aussies respond to. i have an aussie mate here, plus some irish, plus some americans, who would do well with this sentiment. good on ye, for such a short prep. love the fact he's still around to have a round. my dad was in vietnam, i think it's apropos. thx for sharing.

Answer 3

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Answer 4

Sad poem, very well executed. Infants instinctively respond to poetry. It is in our DNA. Poetry was made to be spoken or sung. When people hear it, they respond. Most people are so busy, they have time to read only the essentials, but they respond to spoken poetry.

Answer 5

A wonderful story (poem) of help, understanding, hope and sharing. Thank you ♥

Answer 6

You are totally amazing Jellz...so is the poem.

Answer 7

thats the coolest thing ever!!!

(standing up clapping too!)

nice shot mate!

(im practicing my aussie..)

i can tell that it was really something to be heard.

Answer 8

You're gifted and amazing:)

Congrats I loved it!!

♥

Answer 9

"Speaking from the heart..." Yes!