Poem Analysis - That V C

A Satirical Look at Heroism

Banjo Paterson's "That V.C." is a humorous and cynical take on the idea of wartime heroism. The poem adopts a lighthearted tone, poking fun at the motivations of a soldier seeking glory and the pragmatism of a wounded man content to avoid further danger. Through its narrative, the poem subtly questions the true nature of courage and the sometimes self-serving desire for recognition.

The Reality of War versus Perceived Glory

One of the central themes of the poem is the stark contrast between the romanticized notion of heroism and the brutal reality of war. The opening lines establish this contrast, highlighting the naive "front attack" strategy and immediately juxtaposing it with the wounded soldier's desperate attempt to survive. The imagery of the soldier flattened "as flat as any fish" and burrowing like an "ant-bear" emphasizes the primal instinct for self-preservation. The chaotic sounds of battle - "bullets whistled," "pom-pom gun kept up its braying," "fout-point-seven supplied the bass" - further underscore the terror and the soldier's rational decision to remain hidden.

Self-Interest and the Pursuit of Valor

The theme of self-interest is vividly portrayed through the character of the "valiant comrade." His supposed act of bravery is entirely motivated by the desire to win the Victoria Cross (V.C.) and the financial reward that comes with it. The lines "I'll get the V.C. sure as fate, / Because our blokes is all retiring" reveal his opportunistic approach, viewing the wounded man as a means to an end. His eagerness to "stand you lots of beer and whisky" further exposes his shallow intentions, suggesting that his generosity is conditional and designed to secure his heroic status. The wounded soldier's refusal highlights a deeper understanding of the risks involved, prioritizing his own safety over the comrade's ambition.

Symbolism of the "Hole"

The "hole" that the wounded soldier has worn in the ground serves as a powerful symbol of safety and acceptance of his current situation. It represents a pragmatic retreat from the dangers of war and a rejection of the romanticized idea of heroic sacrifice. The soldier's statement, "I'm fairly safe behind this mound, / I've worn a hole that seems to fit me," suggests a sense of contentment in his limited security. The hole is not just a physical space, but also a metaphorical space of comfort and resignation, where he has come to terms with his vulnerability and chosen survival over glory. Perhaps the hole can even be seen as symbolic of the trenches in which soldiers sought refuge from the constant barrage of artillery fire.

A Cynical Conclusion

The poem concludes with a darkly humorous twist, as the comrade, rejected in his attempt to exploit the wounded man, brands him a "selfish swine." This final line encapsulates the poem's cynical view of heroism, suggesting that even acts of apparent bravery can be tainted by self-interest and a lack of genuine compassion. The poem’s significance lies in its subversion of traditional war narratives, offering a more realistic and ironic perspective on the motivations behind courage and the human instinct for self-preservation in the face of overwhelming danger. The poem leaves the reader questioning what true heroism really means.