2 A.R.D. Fairburn Poems

A.R.D. Fairburn was a New Zealand poet who was born in 1904 in Aukland and died there at the age of fifty-three in 1957. He is noted as a major writer of the mid-1900s, completing many well-loved volumes of verse. His first collection, He Shall Not Rise, was completely self-funded and published in 1930. During the mid-30s, he contributed to the Christchurch magazine, and worked at the Farmers’ Union while helping to edit its journal. Unfortunately, his popularity has declined since his death. But, for lovers of his work, he stands as one of the best writers of his generation.

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To a Millionaire

‘To a Millionaire’ by A. R. D. Fairburn critiques opulence, unraveling hidden guilt, moral decay, and inevitable downfall through vivid metaphors and striking imagery.

'To a Millionaire' encapsulates A. R. D. Fairburn's thematic and stylistic essence, mirroring his broader body of work. It showcases his adept use of vivid imagery and critical tone to dissect societal issues, particularly the moral complexities of wealth. The poem resonates with Fairburn's consistent exploration of human nature, societal structures, and the consequences of unchecked power, making it emblematic of his poetic repertoire.

Lord of our world, take off your velvet

mask. Remove your gentle glove, disclose

the claw-like hand, the dried blood under the nails,

the murder print that never shows.

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Rhyme of the Dead Self

‘Rhyme of the Dead Self’ by A.R.D. Fairburn is a captivating poem in which the poet speaks about youth and coming of age through images of violence and religion.

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