Poems

When Words Together

A poem by Zelda Quakawoot, QLD

Close this Cover of Aboriginal Culture Essentials

Wishing you knew more about Aboriginal culture? Search no more.

Get key foundational knowledge about Aboriginal culture in a fun and engaging way.

This is no ordinary resource: It includes a fictional story, quizzes, crosswords and even a treasure hunt.

Stop feeling bad about not knowing. Make it fun to know better.

Sold! Show me how No, thank you

Political words you use
Do not bemuse
My audience before you;

Like rehearsed prose
One does suppose:
Conflicting points of view;

When words together
Respect each other
They always linger longer;

Our true Songlines
In dance and rhyme
Has ALWAYS made us stronger!

Understanding the poem

Zelda explains her poem:

"This poem intends to simply (and maybe cryptically) make a point about the ways words are used in Australian politics. Political dialogue is never memorable in essence because it changes very often from perspective to perspective, almost a 'rehearsed prose', as described. It has been practiced through hundreds of years in the science of democracy.

"Our Songlines, however, are connected to the people and land, they are respectful and protecting, and they have existed for thousands of years across this land.

"The most recent election [in July 2016] would be a great illustration of how this poem reflects on the use words to communicate in this country when it comes to money and policy in our country.

"Thank you for reading!"

Read another one?

Cite this page

Korff, J 2018, When Words Together, <https://stage.creativespirits.info/aboriginalculture/arts/poems/when-words-together>, retrieved 8 November 2024

Creative Spirits is a starting point for everyone to learn about Aboriginal culture. Please use primary sources for academic work.

Join thousands of Smart Owls who know more!