Poem Analysis - Commandeering

Introduction: A Satirical Take on "Commandeering"

Banjo Paterson's "Commandeering" is a lighthearted and satirical poem that mocks the euphemistic use of the word "commandeer" to disguise theft or appropriation. The poem adopts a humorous and ironic tone as it follows a "simple-minded" soldier who tries to turn the tables by commandeering for himself, only to suffer the consequences. The mood is consistently playful, even when the soldier faces a stomach pump, underscoring the absurdity of the situation.

The Word Game: Euphemism and Justification

One of the main themes explored in the poem is the corruption of language and its use to justify morally questionable actions. Paterson highlights how words like "steal" are replaced with the more palatable "commandeer" to soften the reality of taking something that isn't yours. The opening stanza explicitly states this: "We never use such words as 'steal', or 'collar', 'pinch', or 'shake'. No, the fashion is to say we 'commandeered' it." This sets the stage for the entire poem, emphasizing that the real subject is not the act of taking, but the way language is manipulated to mask it. The poem suggests that by using euphemisms, people attempt to legitimize their actions, both to themselves and to others. The soldier's attempt to "commandeer" the beer is a direct consequence of this societal trend.

Irony and the Reversal of Fortune

Another prominent theme is irony. The soldier initially complains about being subject to "commandeering," lamenting that "a fellow has to carry every blooming thing he's got; Whatever he puts down they'll commandeer it." This demonstrates his awareness of the injustice. However, he then attempts to do the same, revealing his hypocrisy. The ultimate irony, of course, is that his attempt to "commandeer" backfires spectacularly. He drinks sheep dip instead of beer, and the authorities now have to "commandeer" the stomach pump to save him. This reversal of fortune serves as a comedic punishment for his attempt to exploit the system, while also highlighting the ridiculousness of the whole concept of "commandeering."

The "Simple-Minded" Soldier as a Symbol

The poem revolves around the image of the "simple-minded" Tommy. He is not presented as a villain, but rather as a somewhat naive individual who is easily influenced by the prevailing trend of "commandeering." His simplicity makes him a relatable figure, and his ill-fated attempt to "commandeer" is both comical and cautionary. He represents the average person caught in a system where ethical boundaries are blurred. The bottle itself, initially envisioned as containing beer, symbolizes temptation and the allure of easy gain. Its true content – sheep dip – represents the consequences of such desires, exposing the potential danger lurking beneath the surface of superficially appealing opportunities.

Conclusion: A Humorous Critique of Morality

"Commandeering" is a clever and humorous poem that offers a subtle critique of morality and the ways in which language can be used to distort ethical principles. By focusing on the farcical attempt of a "simple-minded" soldier to "commandeer" a bottle of beer, Paterson highlights the absurdity of justifying questionable actions with euphemisms. The poem's enduring appeal lies in its lighthearted approach to a serious subject, inviting readers to reflect on the ethical implications of their own language and actions. It reminds us that while words can be manipulated, the consequences of our choices remain very real.