Who's Gonna Make the Gravy Now? We Ask Master Storyteller Paul Kelly
It all began with a funeral notice published on August 11, 2025, in The Age newspaper, page 33:
"With great sorrow, we announce the death of Joe by sudden misadventure. Much-loved father, husband, brother, brother-in-law and uncle to Dan, Rita, Stella, Roger, Mary, Angus, Frank and Dolly."
"You loved life and went hard at it. You loved music, food, football, celebration, tall tales and strong argument. We can still see you cooking up a storm in the kitchen at our big family gatherings, pots and pans on the go, BBQ smoking outside, glass of wine in hand, your beloved reggae music on the stereo, Junior Murvin, Linton Kwesi Johnson, Gregory Isaac and the like. You filling up everybody's drinks and teasing the little ones."
"Christmas just won't be the same this year without you. But we know you'll always be with us, hovering above us, floating all around us, making sure we get it right."
"The funeral and service will be on August 14th. Followed by a wake to end all wakes! Further details to follow."
We first met Joe in 1996 when he wrote a letter to his brother Dan from prison on December 21, fearing he might lose his wife Rita and children. He was also concerned that no one would know how to make gravy for Christmas. This heartfelt letter became the lyrics for Paul Kelly's classic song, How To Make Gravy.
On August 15, 2025, Paul Kelly released Rita Wrote A Letter, the much-anticipated sequel continuing Joe's story through Rita's perspective.
Context of the Story
- Joe’s funeral announcement reveals a man who cherished life and family traditions.
- The original song captured Joe’s worries about Christmas without him, especially about making gravy.
- The sequel offers a fresh view told from Rita’s side, deepening the narrative started nearly 30 years earlier.
Author's summary: Paul Kelly continues the poignant tale of Joe and his family through a new song, honoring the bonds and traditions that endure beyond loss.
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