The Spell of the Yukon and Other Verses

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Robert Service’s The Spell of the Yukon and Other Verses was his first published compilation, and it includes some of his best work. 

Originally published in 1907, these poems tell stories, sing hymns, and provide commentary on life in the rough country during the first few years of the 20^th century. In many cases, his themes are as recognizable and as relevant today as they were 120 years ago.

Among the best:

• “Music in the Bush” is a thoughtful work about sweet sadness.
• “The Cremation of Dan McGee” is an adventure of whimsy.
• “The Men That Don’t Fit In” may sound an early version of The Eagles’ “Desperado” or Willie Nelson’s “My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys”.
• “The Shooting of Dan McGrew” is another early version of a hit song:  Jim Croce’s “Bad Bad Leroy Brown”.
• “New Year’s Eve” is the haunting story of a regretful life.
• “The Harpy” is the lament of a prostitute.

Even if you’re more into prose than poetry, The Spell of the Yukon and Other Verses is entertaining, thought-provoking, and well worth your time. It may even serve as a springboard to explore offerings from other 19^th and 20^th century poets.

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Quotes

[From “The Law of the Yukon”]   Dreaming alone of a people, dreaming alone of a day, When men shall not rape my riches, and curse me and go away; Making a bawd of my bounty, fouling the hand that gave— Till I rise in my wrath and I seep on their path and I stamp them into a grave.

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