Poem Analysis - Josephs Dreams And Reubens Brethren

Henry Lawson's "Joseph's Dreams And Reuben's Brethren" is a lengthy narrative poem that retells the biblical story of Joseph from a distinctly Australian perspective. The poem adopts a colloquial, almost irreverent tone, injecting humor and cynicism into the familiar narrative. Lawson employs an informal voice, commenting on the characters and events as if he were sharing a yarn with mates in a pub. Despite the lighthearted approach, the poem also grapples with serious themes of family dynamics, envy, betrayal, and the human condition, creating a complex and thought-provoking reading experience. The poem's mood oscillates between humorous observation and cynical reflection, never fully committing to either extreme.

The Universality of Human Flaws

One of the primary themes explored in the poem is the universality of human flaws, particularly within families. Lawson presents the biblical characters not as archetypes of good and evil, but as individuals driven by relatable, if unsavory, motivations. Jacob's favoritism towards Joseph, the brothers' envy and resentment, Joseph's arrogance and self-serving behavior all these are portrayed as common, everyday failings. Lawson emphasizes this point by using contemporary language and situations to describe these ancient conflicts, suggesting that human nature remains fundamentally unchanged across centuries. Phrases like "a spoilt kid" and "a soft thing on" applied to Joseph make him feel less like a biblical figure and more like a modern-day brat.

The Cynical View of Power and Hypocrisy

The poem displays a certain cynicism towards power and hypocrisy, particularly evident in Lawson's portrayal of Joseph's rise to prominence in Egypt. While the biblical narrative often presents Joseph's success as divinely ordained, Lawson emphasizes Joseph's manipulative and self-serving actions, suggesting that he achieved his position through shrewdness and exploitation. The poet is particularly critical of Joseph's actions during the famine, accusing him of creating a "corner" in wheat and exploiting the Egyptians' desperation. This portrayal challenges the traditional interpretation of Joseph as a benevolent leader and raises questions about the nature of power and its potential for abuse. Lawson’s description of Joseph as a "selfish tyrant" and "hypocrite" underscores this theme.

Reuben: The Unsung Moral Compass

A subtly developed theme is the quiet decency of Reuben. Lawson presents Reuben as the most morally upright of Jacob's sons, subtly highlighting his compassion and integrity. Despite the prevalent envy and resentment within the family, Reuben attempts to save Joseph from his brothers' murderous intentions. Lawson pointedly champions Reuben, suggesting that Moses, the traditional author, may have unfairly downplayed Reuben's role due to historical biases. Lawson's insistence on Reuben as "the central figure" in the pit scene underscores the importance of compassion and empathy in a world often driven by self-interest and greed. The poem suggests that even in a morally compromised family, individuals can maintain a sense of ethical grounding, even if they are ultimately unsuccessful in preventing wrongdoing. This is a classic Australian narrative strategy – elevating the average bloke who is trying to do the right thing.

Symbolism of the Coat

The "coat of many colours" serves as a central symbol in the poem, representing favoritism, privilege, and the divisions it creates within the family. The coat is not merely a garment; it is a tangible manifestation of Jacob's preference for Joseph, fueling the brothers' envy and resentment. Lawson describes the coat as something that "would strike a nigger blind!," reflecting both the coat's ostentatious nature and the poem's historical context. The coat's destruction symbolizes the brothers' attempt to erase Joseph's privileged status and the breakdown of familial harmony. Given the focus on mateship and equality in Australian culture, the divisive effect of the coat further condemns it.

Conclusion: A Timeless Tale with Australian Grit

"Joseph's Dreams And Reuben's Brethren" is more than a simple retelling of a biblical story. Through its colloquial language, cynical tone, and focus on the flawed nature of its characters, Lawson offers a timeless commentary on human relationships, power dynamics, and the enduring relevance of ancient conflicts. The poem encourages readers to question traditional narratives and to recognize the complexities and contradictions inherent in the human experience. It’s also a shrewd commentary on the nature of dreams and ambition, and the pitfalls of vanity and pride. The poem's Australian voice adds a unique layer of social commentary, reminding us that these struggles are universal, echoing across cultures and generations. The story of Joseph and his brothers serves as a cautionary tale about favoritism, envy, hypocrisy, and the enduring power of human flaws, but also with the possibility of decency in the face of immense pressure and temptation.