Poem Analysis - Fighting Hard

A Patriotic Call to Arms: An Overview

Henry Lawson's "Fighting Hard" is a patriotic and fervent poem that champions the cause of Australians enlisting to fight for England and the broader Empire. The poem bursts with energy and a sense of duty, initially presenting a romanticized view of war. However, a subtle undercurrent of sacrifice and the emotional toll of war begins to surface as the poem progresses, adding a layer of complexity to its celebratory tone. The repetition of "Fighting hard" underscores the relentless nature of war and the unwavering commitment expected of these soldiers.

Echoes of Empire: Australia's Role

Written during a time of strong imperial ties, the poem reflects Australia's historical context as a dominion of the British Empire. Lawson's era saw many Australians identifying deeply with Britain and readily volunteering for overseas conflicts. The poem's explicit mention of fighting for "England," "France," and "Australasia," as well as "Home and Empire," illustrates this strong allegiance. The inclusion of specific Australian states and regions like "Sunny Queensland" and "West Australia," grounds the poem in a tangible sense of place, emphasizing what these soldiers are fighting to protect, beyond just abstract ideals.

The Price of Patriotism: Duty and Sacrifice

One of the central themes in "Fighting Hard" is the unwavering sense of duty driving these Australian soldiers. The repeated refrain "Fighting hard" emphasizes their commitment to the cause, be it for England, Australia, or the "honour of the World!" A secondary theme, though subtly presented, is the sacrifice inherent in warfare. The lines mentioning "the girl you left behind you" and "the proud tears of a sister" hint at the emotional cost of war, both for the soldiers and their families. The phrase "dying hard for New South Wales" brings a sobering acknowledgment of the potential ultimate sacrifice that these soldiers may face. This acknowledgement introduces the theme of mortality into the poem.

Mapping Home: Symbolism and Imagery of Place

The poem employs vivid imagery and symbolism related to specific locations within Australia and New Zealand (Maoriland). "Farrar's Wheat," "the mulga and the sand," "the mountain and the glen," and "the apple orchards" are not merely descriptions; they represent the unique identity and beauty of the land these soldiers are fighting to defend. The mention of "Eureka" in the context of Victoria provides a historical reference to past struggles for freedom, suggesting that fighting for the Empire is a continuation of that fight against tyranny, even if the "tyrants" are now different. The "wooden homesteads, where the mighty kauris stand" and "fern and tussock" paint a picturesque image of New Zealand, evoking a sense of connection and belonging for the soldiers fighting for "Maoriland!".

Bittersweet Farewell: An Ambiguous Conclusion

The poem concludes with an abrupt shift in tone. The exclamation "You Lucky Devils!" is ambiguous. Is it an envious remark from someone unable to fight, or a sarcastic comment acknowledging the grim reality of war masked by patriotic fervor? This phrase, coupled with the repeated "Fighting hard," leaves the reader with a sense of unease. While the poem initially celebrates the courage and patriotism of the soldiers, the final lines suggest a more complex and perhaps even critical perspective on the true cost of war and the romanticized notions surrounding it. This ambiguity invites reflection on the motivations and consequences of fighting for a cause, leaving the reader to ponder the poem's ultimate message.