Poem Analysis - The Pearl Diver

Introduction: A Fatalistic Tale of Greed

Banjo Paterson's "The Pearl Diver" is a dark and somewhat cynical narrative poem. It tells the story of Kanzo Makame, a Japanese pearl diver, and Joe Nagasaki, his tender, exploring themes of greed, exploitation, and fatalism in the harsh world of pearl diving. The poem begins with a sense of admiration for Kanzo's bravery but gradually shifts to a more critical tone, highlighting the brutal realities and moral compromises inherent in the pursuit of wealth. There's a stark contrast between the diver's fatalistic acceptance of death and the tender's calculated betrayal. The poem concludes with a chilling acceptance of the expendability of human life in the pursuit of profit.

Fatalism vs. Pragmatism: Opposing Philosophies

One of the central themes of the poem is the clash between Kanzo's fatalistic worldview and Joe Nagasaki's pragmatic, self-serving attitude. Kanzo’s philosophy, "All man go dead by and by -- S'posing time come no can help it -- s'pose time no come, then no die," reflects a deep-seated acceptance of fate. He dives into dangerous depths, defying logic and safety, seemingly unconcerned with the potential consequences. Joe, on the other hand, is driven by profit and survival. His decision to cut the lifeline demonstrates a ruthless pragmatism; he is willing to sacrifice Kanzo to save himself and potentially acquire Kanzo's position. This contrast highlights the different ways individuals cope with risk and mortality in a precarious environment.

Exploitation and the Cycle of Expendability

The poem exposes the theme of exploitation at multiple levels. Initially, Kanzo's daring dives push the limits of human endurance, fueled by the desire for wealth. The poem describes the arduous conditions he faces, "Sweated four men at the air pumps... forcing the air down that reached him heated and tainted, and slow." This suggests a system that prioritizes output over the diver's well-being. Furthermore, the final stanza reveals a broader, more systemic exploitation. The phrase "Plenty more Japanee diver plenty more little brown man!" underscores the dehumanizing perspective that sees human life as easily replaceable, particularly the lives of marginalized workers. The pearl industry, as depicted in the poem, thrives on this cycle of expendability.

The Sea as a Symbol of Danger and Allure

The sea itself functions as a potent symbol throughout the poem. It represents both the source of wealth and the ever-present threat of death. The depths where Kanzo dives are described as perilous and unforgiving, "Down in a pressure so awful that only the strongest survive." Yet, the allure of pearls and the potential for great profit drive men to risk their lives in these dangerous waters. The sea also embodies the moral depths to which individuals will sink in the pursuit of wealth, exemplified by Joe's ultimate betrayal. The vastness and indifference of the ocean mirror the cold calculations and lack of empathy displayed by those seeking fortune.

A Cynical Conclusion and Lingering Questions

The poem concludes with a sense of bleak cynicism. Joe's successful deception and his subsequent rise as "owner and diver instead" suggest that treachery and self-preservation are ultimately rewarded. The final lines, seemingly offering a bleak consolation to the "Wearer of pearls," highlight the human cost behind luxury and beauty. "The Pearl Diver" leaves the reader questioning the morality of a system that thrives on exploitation and the disposability of human life. Is the poem a commentary on the specific context of Japanese divers in the pearling industry, or does it represent a broader critique of human nature and the pursuit of wealth at any cost?