Poem Analysis - But Whats The Use

Introduction: A Bushman's Lament

Henry Lawson's "But What's The Use" is a poignant reflection on the disconnect between urban Australia and the harsh realities of bush life. The poem expresses a sense of frustration and resignation as the speaker questions the value of writing about the outback when city dwellers, and even farming folk, seem incapable of truly understanding its essence. The tone is initially weary and somewhat cynical, tinged with the knowledge that the bushman's experiences are often misunderstood or romanticized. However, amidst this discouragement, there are moments of vivid, evocative imagery that reveal a deep appreciation for the unique beauty and hardship of the Australian landscape.

Historical Context: Lawson and the Bush

Henry Lawson (1867-1922) was an Australian writer and poet, often considered Australia's "poet of the people." He experienced firsthand the hardships of bush life, which profoundly influenced his writing. His work often focuses on the struggles of ordinary Australians living in the outback, particularly during periods of drought and economic hardship. The late 19th and early 20th centuries were a time of significant social and economic change in Australia, with increasing urbanization and a growing divide between city and country. Lawson’s poem is a direct response to this environment, where editors demanded “bush” stories but likely sanitised or misunderstood the reality.

Theme 1: The Unbridgeable Divide

One of the central themes is the inability of urban and rural Australians to truly understand each other. Lawson emphasizes this divide from the outset with the repeated question, "But what's the use of writing 'bush'?" He argues that "city folk, and farming folk, / Can never understand it." This disconnect stems from a fundamental difference in perspective. City dwellers, with their relative comfort and security, are "blind to what the bushman sees." This blindness is not literal; rather, it represents a lack of empathy and comprehension for the harsh realities and unique beauty of the outback. The use of "cockatoos" in the final stanza, alongside "city folk", is a direct insult, suggesting a certain ignorance or foolishness.

Theme 2: Isolation and Hardship

The poem vividly portrays the isolation and hardship endured by those living in the Australian bush. The descriptions of the "swagman tramping 'cross the plain" and the "dog that slopes behind / His master like a shadder" evoke a sense of loneliness and deprivation. The "nose-bag getting cruel light" and the "traveller getting silly" highlight the physical and mental toll of the journey. Even the natural world, with its "crows at sunrise flopping round / Where some poor life has run down," reinforces the theme of struggle and mortality. The landscape itself is depicted as challenging and unforgiving, with the "plain that seems to Jackaroos / Like gently sloping rises" revealing how easily newcomers can be deceived by its vastness.

Theme 3: Hope and Resilience

Despite the prevailing sense of hardship, the poem also offers glimpses of hope and resilience. The description of the swagman's joy upon "Returning, after shearing" and spotting the "Darling Timber!" suggests the possibility of overcoming adversity. The "weary spirit breathes again," and "aching legs seem limber" demonstrate the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of challenging conditions. This section shows that bushmen are more than just victims of circumstance; they possess a certain grit and determination to persevere even in the face of overwhelming odds. The reference to "Darling Timber" (i.e., a forest near the Darling River) provides a focal point that illustrates the possibility of reaching safety, rest, and relief.

Imagery: A Landscape of Struggle and Beauty

The poem is rich in vivid imagery that brings the Australian outback to life. The recurring image of the landscape itself, with its vast plains, "shrubs and tufts," and "track that seems arisen up," symbolizes the challenges and deceptions that bushmen must navigate. The crows, emus, and kangaroos represent the unique wildlife of the region and its indifference to human suffering. The "turkey-tail to scare the flies" and the "water-bag and billy" are practical reminders of the daily struggle for survival. The stars are also symbolic, representing both the vastness and isolation of the bush, as well as the beauty that can be found in the most remote places.

Conclusion: A Voice for the Voiceless

"But What's The Use" is more than just a lament about the misunderstanding of bush life; it's a powerful and moving tribute to the resilience and dignity of those who endure its hardships. While the speaker expresses frustration at the lack of understanding from urban Australians, the poem itself serves as a testament to the importance of telling these stories. Lawson's work gives a voice to the voiceless, capturing the essence of the Australian outback and its people in a way that resonates with readers even today. The question remains: can art truly bridge the gap between different worlds and foster genuine understanding? The poem suggests that it is a difficult, perhaps even impossible task, but one that is nonetheless worth pursuing.