Poetry Explorer


Classic and Contemporary Poetry


AFTER THE ACCIDENT by FRANCIS BRET HARTE

Poet Analysis

First Line: WHAT I WANT IS MY HUSBAND, SIR
Last Line: IT'S ME!

WHAT I want is my husband, sir, --
And if you're a man, sir,
You'll give me an answer, --
Where is my Joe?

Penrhyn, sir, Joe, --
Caernovanshire.
Six months ago
Since we came here --
Eh? -- Ah, you know!

Well, I am quiet
And still.
But I must stand here,
And will!
Please -- I'll be strong --
If you'll just let me wait
Inside o' that gate
Till the news comes along.
"Negligence" --
That was the cause; --
Butchery! --
Are there no laws, --
Laws to protect such as we?

Well, then! --
I won't raise my voice.
There men!
I won't make no noise.
Only you just let me be.

Four, only four -- did he say --
Saved! and the other ones? -- Eh?
Why do they call?
Why are they all
Looking and coming this way!

What's that? -- a message?
I'll take it.
I know his wife, sir,
I'll break it.

"Foreman!"
Ay, ay!
"Out by and by," --
"Just saved his life."
"Say to his wife
Soon he'll be free,"
Will I? -- God bless you,
It's me!



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