The Even More Complete Book of Australian Verse

'For many years it was assumed that poetry came from England. Research now clearly demonstrates, however, that a great many of the world’s most famous poets were actually Australians.'


Possibly the most important anthology ever published. The definitive collection featuring key works by such famous Australian poets as Gavin Milton, Arnold Wordsworth, Sylvia Blath, Very Manly Hopkins, R.A.C.V. Milne and Dylan Thompson.


John Clarke was born in New Zealand. He is one of Australia's best-known and most loved faces on TV. A comedian, writer and actor, his appearances include the famous Fred Dagg character, 'The Gillies Report' and 'The Games'. John's books include A Dagg at My Table, The Howard Miracle and The 7.56 Report. His novel, The Tournament, was released in the UK and US to great critical acclaim.

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‘John Clarke is a very funny man. And a very clever one…These poems work on two levels. First, as parodies of the poets and poems themselves, with Clarke often able to capture almost exactly the cadence of the originals. Second, the subject matter, sometimes political, sometimes not, is funny in itself, even if you aren’t familiar with the originals.’ Age


'A proverbial hoot. Clarke has a completely irreverent sense of humour.' West Australian

'Cruel parody of the first order.' Weekend Australian


'Round our way, John Clarke rates as a national institution.' Sydney Morning Herald


'One of the most interesting minds at work in this culture.' Martin Flanagan, Age


'OK. We need a treaty with New Zealand. We have to stop pinching their stuff. Phar Lap, the pavlova, Crowded House, Russell Crowe. They're Kiwis. But they can't have John Clarke back. He's an Aussie now. His Even More Complete Book of Australian Verse makes it official. This reissued collection contains brilliant parodies of famous poets and humour so dry the book is in danger of catching alight. Come the republic, I'm voting John Clarke for president of Australia. And maybe of NZ as well.' Herald Sun