He bought the heady outside world into our house —James Button's eulogy for his father John Button, State Memorial Service, Melbourne, April 2008

Author James Button's 2008 eulogy for his politician father John Button was one of the first speeches ever added to Speakola. It's a beautiful speech, full of stories about one of Australia's most significant Labor politicians. It's also a eulogy that has an honesty to it, it talks about John Button's moodiness, his taciturn nature, his absences. But it also demonstrates his intelligence, wit and charisma. There's a sadness in Senator Button's past that James didn't bring up in the eulogy, which he now regrets, as he discusses in the interview. it's a brilliant speech and episode. James Button's books include Speechless  A Year in My Father's Business and Comeback: the Fall and Rise of Geelong. Tony's footy books include 1989 The Great Grand Final. Subscribe to Tony Wilson's 'Good one, Wilson' substack, to receive a weekly taste of his writing. An email a week, with stories like this one about his son. Speakola is made entirely by Tony and supported by listeners. There is a Patreon page which you can join If you want to offer Tony regular support. Also we welcome credit card donations,  which can be monthly or one off. Subscribe to our newsletter if you want a fortnightly email setting out great speeches by theme. Spread the speakola word! Tag @byTonyWilson @speakola_ on Twitter facebook and Instagram. Speakola is sponsored by DocPlay. Get a two week free trial on the world's best documentary streaming site, then if you choose to continue, $7.99/m. Email comments or ideas to [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.