Poem Analysis - Old Pardon The Son Of Reprieve

A Yarn of Horse Racing Glory

Banjo Paterson's "Old Pardon, the Son of Reprieve" is a spirited and engaging narrative poem celebrating a legendary racehorse and the thrill of the race. Told from the perspective of an aging race enthusiast, the poem recounts the saga of Pardon, a horse known for his tenacity and unexpected victories. The tone is initially conversational and nostalgic, quickly transitioning to excitement and suspense during the race descriptions, and finally returning to a reflective and wistful mood as the narrator contemplates mortality and the afterlife. The poem is infused with Australian vernacular, giving it an authentic and relatable feel.

The Underdog's Triumph: A Celebration of Resilience

One of the central themes is the celebration of resilience and the triumph of the underdog. Pardon, despite being sabotaged with green barley, which should have rendered him unable to race effectively, manages to overcome this obstacle and win. The poem emphasizes his "dogged persistence" and "pluck," highlighting the idea that sheer determination can conquer adversity. The imagery of Pardon "rolling and weltering" in the first heat, then "coming like a shot from a gun" in the second, powerfully illustrates this transformation and reinforces the theme of overcoming challenges. The narrator's emotional investment in Pardon's struggle further amplifies this theme.

Racing as Metaphor: Life's Challenges and Rewards

The poem also uses horse racing as a metaphor for life's challenges and rewards. The race itself represents the struggles individuals face, while victory symbolizes the achievement of goals. The "clever division" and their underhanded tactics represent the unfairness and obstacles encountered in life. The narrator's changing fortunes, from initial confidence to despair and eventual elation, mirror the ups and downs of life's journey. The poem suggests that, like in a race, persistence and inner strength are essential for navigating these challenges and ultimately achieving success. The final verses, where the narrator dreams of a racecourse in the afterlife, imply that this spirit of competition and striving extends beyond earthly existence.

Nostalgia and Mortality: The Passage of Time

A third significant theme is nostalgia and the contemplation of mortality. The poem opens with the narrator lamenting the listener's ignorance of Pardon's story, establishing a sense of longing for a bygone era. The detailed descriptions of the races and the colorful characters evoke a romanticized view of the past. The closing stanzas, where the narrator reflects on Pardon's aging and his own impending death, introduce a somber note. The lines "But he's old -- and his eyes are grown hollow/Like me, with my thatch of the snow" create a poignant image of shared mortality. The narrator's desire to be reunited with the racehorses in the afterlife suggests a yearning for the vibrancy and excitement of the past and a way to transcend the limitations of mortality. He even imagines himself as "Angel Harrison", indicating he sees death as more of a rebirth into an even greater world of racing.

The Symbolism of Pardon: More Than Just a Horse

Pardon himself serves as a central symbol throughout the poem. He represents not just a racehorse, but also qualities such as courage, resilience, and the spirit of competition. His name, "Pardon," could be interpreted as symbolic of forgiveness or redemption, perhaps hinting at the possibility of overcoming past mistakes or shortcomings. The contrasting images of Pardon – initially burdened by the barley, then surging ahead with renewed vigor – create a powerful visual symbol of transformation and the potential for unexpected comebacks. The recurring references to his lineage as "the son of Reprieve" further emphasize his exceptional nature and his ability to defy expectations. Is his name “Pardon” an implication of Paterson commenting on how Australians were willing to “pardon” those willing to try their luck in the outback, even if it was hard?

A Lasting Legacy: The Enduring Appeal of Underdog Stories

In conclusion, "Old Pardon, the Son of Reprieve" is a captivating poem that celebrates the spirit of competition, the thrill of horse racing, and the enduring power of resilience. Through vivid imagery, colloquial language, and a compelling narrative, Paterson crafts a timeless tale of an underdog triumphing against the odds. The poem's exploration of themes such as nostalgia, mortality, and the metaphorical nature of racing adds depth and resonance to its overall message. Ultimately, the poem reminds us of the importance of perseverance, the allure of the past, and the enduring human fascination with stories of courage and determination.