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'‘Such is life’ is a common phrase in Australian popular culture – it has even been tattooed on bodies – but Joseph Furphy’s novel of the same name, published in 1903, is often forgotten. Ned Kelly mythology suggests that he uttered this phrase just before being hanged in 1880, though some historians argue that what he actually said was, ‘Ah well, I suppose’. Long before Furphy (1843–1912) wrote his magnum opus, the stoic phrase was perhaps wrongly associated with a cult hero’s execution.' (Introduction)
Publication Details of Only Known VersionEarliest 2 Known Versions of
Last amended 1 Aug 2022 15:51:10
20-21
https://www.australianbookreview.com.au/abr-online/archive/2022/august-2022-no-445/980-august-2022-no-445/9379-brigid-magner-reviews-the-life-of-such-is-life-a-cultural-history-of-an-australian-classic-by-roger-osborne
‘Ah Well, I Suppose’ : The Editorial Challenge of Such Is Life
Australian Book Review
Review of:
- The Life of Such is Life : A Cultural History of an Australian Classic 2022 multi chapter work criticism
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