Poem Analysis - As It Was In The Beginning

An Echo of Eternal Patterns

Henry Lawson's "as it was in the beginning" is a somber reflection on the cyclical nature of human experience, particularly regarding love, sacrifice, and the ever-present specter of death. The poem evokes a sense of inevitability, suggesting that certain patterns of behavior and devotion are eternally etched into the human condition. While maintaining a generally mournful tone, the poem concludes with a spark of defiance and hope, hinting at a future where traditional gender roles are challenged in the face of collective struggle.

Echoes of Australia’s Past

While a definitive historical context is not readily available, Lawson's work often reflects the harsh realities of life in rural Australia during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The themes of hardship, sacrifice, and loyalty to comrades resonated deeply with the Australian experience, especially considering the country's involvement in various conflicts. The poem likely touches upon those societal values and sentiments.

The Enduring Power of Love and Sacrifice

One of the poem's central themes is the enduring power of love and the sacrifices it inspires. The opening stanzas establish that love, in its various forms – familial, romantic, or fraternal – remains a constant motivating force throughout history. This love drives individuals to acts of extraordinary courage and selflessness. The repeated image of "strong men go out to die" underscores the ultimate sacrifice made out of love for country, honor, or creed. The poem then subverts expectations by including "our girls, disguised in boys' clothes, go to die where strong men die," illustrating love surpassing gender boundaries.

Mortality’s Unwavering Grip

The pervasive theme of mortality is inextricably linked to the poem's exploration of sacrifice. Death is not presented as an end but rather as an integral part of the cycle of life and love. The lines describing the fallen soldier – "All his wounds in front, and hidden – blood to earth, and back to sky" – create a powerful image of sacrifice and a return to the natural world. The phrase "blood to earth, and back to sky" is also a very powerful symbol of sacrifice that transcends physicality. It is about something bigger than the person and something bigger than the earth, something more spiritual.

Defiance in the Face of Fate

Despite the poem's somber tone, a current of defiance runs beneath the surface. The line "Rebels all we are, and brothers – rebels to the laws we make" suggests a rejection of societal constraints and a willingness to challenge the status quo. This rebellion is not necessarily violent but rather a fundamental questioning of established norms. The final stanza, with the image of women breaking free from traditional gender roles to fight alongside men, reinforces this theme of defiance and hints at a potential for change, suggesting that while some things remain constant, others are subject to evolution and rebellion.

A Timeless Reflection on the Human Condition

In conclusion, "as it was in the beginning" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that explores the cyclical nature of human experience, emphasizing the enduring themes of love, sacrifice, and mortality. Through vivid imagery and a somber tone, Lawson creates a timeless reflection on the human condition, suggesting that while certain patterns of behavior may persist throughout history, there is also room for defiance, change, and a challenging of established norms. The poem's ultimate significance lies in its ability to resonate with readers across generations, prompting them to consider the enduring forces that shape our lives and the choices we make in the face of adversity.