Who’s Gonna Make the Gravy Now? We Ask Master Storyteller Paul Kelly
It all began with a funeral notice on page 33 of The Age newspaper on August 11, 2025:
“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.”
The Origin of the Story
We first met Joe in 1996, when he wrote a letter from prison to his brother Dan on December 21. He was scared of losing his wife Rita and the children, and worried that nobody would know how to make gravy for Christmas. This letter became the lyrics to Paul Kelly’s iconic song How To Make Gravy.
The Sequel Release
On August 15, 2025, Paul Kelly released the highly anticipated follow-up titled Rita Wrote A Letter, continuing the heartfelt storytelling that began with Joe’s letter.
Reflection from Paul Kelly
Paul Kelly had initially tried writing a song from Rita’s perspective, but found himself sidetracked by Joe’s voice, which would not stop speaking through the narrative.
Legacy
- Joe’s life was celebrated for his love of music, food, and family gatherings.
- The song How To Make Gravy remains a poignant reminder of the Christmas spirit and family bonds.
- The sequel Rita Wrote A Letter adds depth, giving a voice to the story’s next chapter.
Author’s summary: Paul Kelly’s storytelling power brings to life the heartfelt family story behind the classic “How To Make Gravy” and its new sequel, capturing love and loss with vivid detail.