Poem Analysis - Reconstruction

Introduction: A Sardonic Lament

Banjo Paterson's "Reconstruction" is a wry and cynical commentary on the economic hardships faced by rural Australians during a banking crisis. The poem adopts a conversational, almost folksy tone, but beneath the surface lies a deep resentment towards the banks and their perceived exploitation of ordinary people. The mood is initially resigned, but gradually shifts to anger and defiance as the speaker catalogs his grievances and predicts dire consequences for the banks.

Echoes of Economic Hardship

While specific historical details are not provided within the poem, it is likely a reflection of the banking crises that affected Australia in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These crises often hit farmers and rural communities particularly hard, as they were heavily reliant on banks for loans and credit. Paterson, known for his poems celebrating the Australian outback and its people, often addressed the realities of rural life, including its economic challenges. Therefore, the poem likely resonates with real experiences of financial struggle and the perceived injustices of the banking system.

The Crushing Weight of Debt

One of the central themes is the devastating impact of debt on individuals and communities. The speaker is trapped in a situation where his money is locked in a "reconstructed bank," rendering him unable to meet his obligations, such as paying his ploughmen and rent. This inability to pay leads to the threat of being "sold up" by his landlord, mirroring the fate of his neighbor Johnson, who was stripped of everything by the bank. The poem highlights how debt can lead to a cycle of poverty and despair, leaving individuals powerless against larger financial institutions.

A System Stacked Against the Little Guy

Another key theme is the inequity of the banking system. The speaker repeatedly emphasizes the unfairness of the situation, where the bank profits handsomely ("twenty-five per cent") while ordinary people struggle to survive. He questions the logic of "reserve funds" and "banking freeholds," suggesting that the banks prioritized their own interests over the needs of their depositors. The line "they take a fellow's money / When they haven't got enough to pay their debts" encapsulates this sense of injustice, exposing the hypocrisy and potential instability of the banking system.

The Seeds of Rebellion: A Call to Action

Finally, the poem touches on the theme of resistance and retribution. While initially resigned, the speaker's tone becomes increasingly defiant as he contemplates the bank's actions. He predicts that if the bank shareholders refuse to "pay what you owe," their institution will "fall a blight." This threat, combined with the earlier lament about Johnson's fate, suggests a growing sense of anger and a desire for justice. The poem culminates in a prediction that deposits will be stopped and the bank will "bust," implying that the community will ultimately take action to protect themselves from further exploitation. This hints at a form of collective resistance, even if it is expressed through economic withdrawal.

The Horse as a Symbol of Endurance and Mortality

The image of the horse, which will "perish waiting while the grass is germinating," serves as a powerful symbol of patience, endurance, and ultimately, mortality. The horse represents the speaker and the other rural Australians who are forced to wait for their money while facing immediate financial pressures. The horse's inevitable demise underscores the futility of waiting for a distant promise when survival is at stake. It also highlights the vulnerability of those dependent on the land, whose livelihoods are threatened by the bank's actions.

Conclusion: A Timeless Warning

"Reconstruction" is more than just a complaint about a specific banking crisis; it is a timeless critique of financial institutions and their potential to exploit vulnerable populations. Paterson's use of colloquial language and relatable imagery makes the poem accessible and engaging, while its underlying message about economic injustice and the importance of community remains relevant today. The poem's significance lies in its ability to capture the frustrations and anxieties of ordinary people facing economic hardship and to serve as a warning against unchecked financial power.