On Our Selection

Steele Rudd's "On Our Selection" masterfully intertwines humor and poignancy to portray the lives of rural Australian farmers during the early 20th century. Written in a distinctive, conversational literary style, the book presents a series of anecdotes centered around the Rudd family, particularly Dad Rudd and his endearing misadventures. Through vivid imagery and a richly colloquial dialect, Rudd captures the trials and tribulations of farming life, simultaneously critiquing societal norms and celebrating the resilience of rural communities. The work is part of a broader literary context that examines Australian identity, showcasing the tension between urbanization and traditional values. Steele Rudd, born as Arthur Hoey Davis in 1868, was a quintessential bushman whose own experiences on the land deeply informed his writing. His upbringing in a rural environment imbued him with a sense of authenticity in depicting the struggles faced by farmers. Rudd'Äôs commitment to showcasing the dignity and humor of rural life was influenced by broader movements in Australian literature that sought to give voice to the bush experience, thereby challenging more cosmopolitan literary traditions of the time. "On Our Selection" is highly recommended for readers seeking a deep understanding of Australian rural life and its rich narrative tradition. Through Rudd's wit and wisdom, the book offers not only entertainment but also a profound commentary on the human condition and the indomitable spirit of those who toil under the sun.