On the Fly!: Hobo Literature and Songs, 1879–1941

by Iain McIntyre

The first anthology of its kind , On The Fly! collects dozens of stories, poems, songs, stories, and articles produced by hoboes to create an insider history of the subculture's rise and fall. Adrenaline-charged tales of train hopping, scams, and political agitation are combined with humorous and satirical songs, razor sharp reportage and unique insights into the lives of the women and men who crisscrossed America in search of survival and adventure. With little of the original memoirs, literature, and verse remaining in print, this collection, aided by a glossary of hobo vernacular and numerous illustrations and photos, provides a comprehensive and entertaining guide to the life and times of a uniquely American icon.

Genres: Nonfiction, History

416 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 14, 2018

Reviews

[Philip Girvan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Editor Ian McIntyre and his team have done a great job curating and assembling a wide range of stories and songs that capture the knockabout, as well as the grim, aspects of itinerant travellers’ lives in late 19th and early 20th century.

[James R. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very long, covering a little bit of everything. I good start for people looking to dive deeper.

[Andrew Nette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent work. Recommended.