Poem Analysis - As Ireland Wore The Green

Introduction: A Call to Resistance

Henry Lawson's "As Ireland Wore The Green" is a rousing call to action, fueled by a deep sense of injustice and a yearning for a better future for Australia. The poem uses the historical example of Irish resistance to oppression as a model for Australians facing similar threats. Its tone is initially concerned and frustrated, but it quickly transforms into one of defiance and hope, culminating in a vision of collective action and eventual triumph. The poem pulsates with a rhythm that urges action and a spirit that refuses to surrender.

The Spectre of Mammon: A Theme of Economic Injustice

A central theme is the threat of unchecked capitalism, personified by "Mammon," leading to economic injustice and the erosion of the Australian dream. Lawson portrays a stark contrast between the idyllic, hard-won landscapes created by pioneers and the encroaching "slums and alley-ways" resulting from greed. The repeated question, "O must we hide our colour / In fear of Mammon’s spleen?" highlights the pressure to conform to the dictates of wealth and power, a pressure Lawson fiercely rejects. The poem suggests that prioritizing profit ("Mammon builds his Londons") over the well-being of the people ("shade of poverty fall[ing] on each sunny scene") is a betrayal of the sacrifices made by earlier generations.

Honoring the Pioneers: Sacrifice and Legacy

Another prominent theme is the honoring of the pioneering spirit and the sacrifices of those who settled Australia. Lawson vividly describes the hardships faced by "our fathers" and "our brave mothers" who toiled on the "great awful plains." He argues that their labor and dedication should not be in vain, that the land they tamed should not be unjustly seized by "lordly robbers" who "never touched the axe or spade." This theme reinforces the idea that present-day Australians have a moral obligation to protect the legacy of their ancestors and ensure a fair distribution of wealth and opportunity. The memory of the pioneers fuels the call to action, suggesting that their spirit of resilience and determination should inspire contemporary resistance.

The Green as a Symbol of Defiance: Echoes of Irish Resistance

The central symbol in the poem is, of course, "the green," referencing the historical struggles of the Irish people against British rule. The phrase "As Ireland wore the green" is repeated as a rallying cry, equating the situation in Australia with the historical oppression faced by the Irish. The green represents a refusal to be silenced, a willingness to assert one's identity and rights in the face of adversity. By invoking this potent symbol, Lawson connects the Australian struggle for social justice to a broader history of resistance, imbuing it with a sense of legitimacy and strength. He encourages Australians to emulate the unwavering spirit of the Irish in their own fight against injustice. The specific color "bonnie blue" is also used as a counterpoint to the green, as it references the land and the sky in which the people live. It also emphasizes the connection of the people to the land.

The Southern Cross and the Call to Arms: Unity and Hope

Lawson uses vivid imagery to bolster his theme, but one notable example is his use of the Southern Cross and the "lamp of hope". These represent a potential new Australia that his call to action can achieve. The Southern Cross displayed on the banner, is a symbol of Australian identity and independence, further reinforces the call for self-determination and resistance against external or internal oppression. The "lamp of hope," to "light the lamp of hope above the alley and the slum," suggests an optimism about the future that can be possible through fighting for change. The reference is a literal "call to arms" to take back the country. These images of unity and hope are woven throughout the poem, offering a positive vision that counteracts the bleakness of economic injustice and encourages collective action.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Resistance and Hope

"As Ireland Wore The Green" is more than just a protest poem; it is a testament to the enduring human spirit and the power of collective action. By drawing parallels between the Irish struggle and the challenges faced by Australians, Lawson crafts a powerful call to resist oppression and build a fairer society. The poem's enduring significance lies in its ability to inspire hope and a sense of shared purpose, reminding us that even in the face of overwhelming odds, the fight for justice is always worth waging. The poem encourages readers to embrace their identity, honor their heritage, and work together to create a better future for generations to come. It is a poem about not only wearing your colors, but fighting for them.