Australian Folklore Unit with Warren Fahey

page 5 (cont ... )

One trick in 'Maggie's' album was a turned corner of a page where a lock of Lillian R Robinson's hair was sewn into the page with a pink thread. The lock was then surrounded with drawn lilacs along with the following verse:

You asked for something original
Something out of my head,
As I haven't got anything in it,
I'll give you what's on it instead!



Another trick involved writing verse or surprise endings upside down.

Two in a hammock
Attempted to kiss,
But all in a moment
(This last line written upside down)
They ended like this!

The following was written upside down:

I'm the girl who ruined your book
By writing upside down.

Circular verse was also used so that the poem was written spirally or in concentric circles. Some carried the following verse:

Round is the ring that hath no end;
So is my love for you, my friend.

Another very popular autograph album trick involved turning down a page corner and writing 'Strictly Private – for ladies only'. When turned over the page reads 'Sticky Beak!'

It was not uncommon for autograph albums to contain pressed flowers and petals. Rose and poppy petals were the most popular. Sometimes these petals were given an extra boost with scent.

On this leaf, in memory pressed,
May my name forever rest.



 



 





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