Poem Analysis - On The Trek

An Overview of Weariness and Longing

Banjo Paterson's "On the Trek" is a poignant reflection on the hardships and emotional toll of war, experienced from the perspective of an Australian soldier. The poem is imbued with a sense of weariness, both physical and mental, as the soldier grapples with the monotony and brutality of his duty. A somber tone dominates the piece, punctuated by moments of nostalgic yearning for home and a growing disillusionment with the conflict. The consistent refrain, "For we're going on a long job now," underscores the seemingly endless nature of their commitment and the uncertain future that awaits them.

Historical Context: The Boer War

While not explicitly stated, the poem strongly suggests the setting of the Second Boer War (1899-1902), a conflict in which Australian soldiers participated as part of the British Empire's forces. The references to the "veldt" (South African grassland), "Mauser ball" (a type of rifle used by the Boers), and the overall descriptions of a drawn-out campaign in a foreign landscape are strong indicators. This context adds depth to the poem, highlighting the disconnect between the Australian soldiers and the land they are fighting on, as well as the potential social environment of the audience who would be familiar with the conflict.

Themes of Homesickness, Disillusionment, and the Loss of Innocence

Homesickness is a central theme, powerfully evoked through vivid imagery of the Australian landscape. The soldier's thoughts constantly drift back to "the youngsters far away," "the homestead where the climbing roses grow," and the "flats [growing] golden with the ripening of the grain." These images paint a picture of peace, fertility, and familial warmth, a stark contrast to the harsh reality of the war. This contrast emphasizes the deep longing and emotional distress caused by separation from loved ones and familiar surroundings.

Another prominent theme is disillusionment with war. Initially, there might have been excitement, but this quickly fades as the soldier witnesses the horrors of combat. The lines "When the dash and the excitement and the novelty are dead, / And you've seen a load of wounded once or twice, / Or you've watched your old mate dying, with the vultures overhead -- / Well, you wonder if the war is worth the price" encapsulates this growing cynicism. The brutal reality of death and suffering shatters any romantic notions of warfare.

The theme of loss of innocence is interwoven with the disillusionment. The soldier's experience transforms him from a hopeful participant to someone burdened by the weight of what he has seen and done. He reflects on the shearing season back home, a symbol of normalcy and peace, knowing he will be missed: "But they'll miss me on the Lachlan when they call the roll this year." This realization underscores the irreversible impact of war and the personal sacrifices made.

Symbolic Imagery of Home and Danger

The recurring image of the Australian homestead acts as a powerful symbol of everything the soldier is fighting for and everything he is missing. The "climbing roses" represent beauty, domesticity, and the enduring nature of love and family. This image provides a stark contrast to the barren "veldt" and the ever-present danger of the battlefield.

The "Mauser ball" humming past "like a vicious kind of bee" is a vivid and unnerving image that represents the constant threat of death. The comparison to a bee, an insect associated with stinging and irritation, downplays the severity of a bullet while simultaneously conveying its dangerous and unpredictable nature. This seemingly small detail highlights the psychological strain of living under constant threat.

Conclusion: A Soldier's Lament

"On the Trek" is a moving portrayal of the human cost of war, focusing on the emotional and psychological burdens carried by soldiers far from home. Paterson masterfully uses vivid imagery and a somber tone to convey the weariness, disillusionment, and longing that define the soldier's experience. The poem serves as a timeless reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve and the enduring power of homesickness and the search for meaning amidst conflict. The phrase "For we're going on a long job now" could be seen as an admission of the never ending psychological damage the war leaves on these soldiers.