Poem Analysis - Keeping His First Wife Now

Introduction: A Satirical Look at Marriage and Society

Henry Lawson's "Keeping His First Wife Now" is a satirical commentary on the complexities of marriage, divorce, and societal expectations within the Australian context. The poem employs a light, almost gossipy tone to explore the tumultuous relationship of Reginald Jones and his first wife, exposing the superficiality and hypocrisy often found within high society. While the poem initially seems humorous, a darker undercurrent of societal critique emerges, questioning the true meaning of love and commitment. The poem's tone shifts subtly from amusement to a more thoughtful reflection on the consequences of prioritizing social status over genuine connection.

Context and Lawson's Perspective

Henry Lawson was known for his realist depictions of Australian life, often focusing on the working class and the struggles of ordinary people. While "Keeping His First Wife Now" addresses a more affluent segment of society, it still reflects Lawson's tendency to critique social conventions and expose the flaws within the social fabric. The poem likely reflects the changing attitudes towards divorce and marriage in Australia during Lawson's time, a period of evolving social norms and increasing scrutiny of traditional values. Lawson uses this poem to poke fun at the elite while subtly championing a return to more authentic values.

The Hollow Pursuit of Status

One of the central themes of the poem is the destructive nature of prioritizing social status over genuine affection. Reginald's first wife is portrayed as being "mad for 'notice' and 'talk,'" suggesting that her initial interest in marriage was driven by a desire for fame and attention rather than love. The poem reveals the emptiness of her pursuits after the divorce, finding her freedom "mighty tame." This disillusionment suggests that the superficial rewards of social notoriety are ultimately unsatisfying. Lawson uses the wife's experience to illustrate the hollowness of a life centered on external validation rather than internal fulfillment.

Love and Redemption

The theme of love's potential for redemption is woven throughout the poem. While the initial marriage lacks love ("Never an atom of love had she"), the eventual reunion suggests a possibility for growth and change. The line "Reginald Jones of 'The Fernery' Has the love of his first wife now" implies that the experience of separation and the passage of time have allowed genuine feelings to develop. Whether driven by conscience, boredom, or the child, the wife's return hints at a desire for something more meaningful than superficial fame. The poem suggests that even in the most flawed relationships, the possibility of love and reconciliation remains.

The Irony of Societal Expectations

The poem cleverly uses irony to critique societal expectations surrounding marriage and divorce. The opening lines, "T's oh! for a rivet in marriage bonds, / And a splice in the knot untied, / The sanctity of the marriage tie / Is growing more sanctified!" are dripping with sarcasm. Lawson mocks the supposed "sanctity" of marriage in a society where relationships are often based on social climbing and superficial appearances. The poem implies that the societal pressure to maintain appearances often leads to unhappy and unfulfilling marriages, highlighting the hypocrisy inherent in valuing social standing over personal well-being. The second wife's plight further emphasizes this irony, as she "married him too for 'place'" and now faces the consequences of her own ambition.

Symbolism of "The Fernery"

The recurring mention of "The Fernery" as Reginald Jones's residence acts as a symbol of wealth and status. It represents the material comfort and social position that initially attracted his first wife. However, "The Fernery" also becomes a symbol of the constraints and expectations that come with such privilege. It is within this environment of wealth and social pressure that the characters navigate their complex relationships. One might interpret "The Fernery" as a gilded cage, trapping its inhabitants within the confines of societal expectations. Is the return to "The Fernery" a genuine reconciliation, or simply a return to a comfortable, albeit superficial, existence?

Conclusion: A Complex Commentary on Relationships

"Keeping His First Wife Now" is a multifaceted poem that offers a cynical yet ultimately hopeful perspective on marriage, divorce, and societal pressures. Through satire and subtle shifts in tone, Lawson exposes the superficiality of high society while also suggesting the possibility of genuine connection and redemption. The poem's enduring significance lies in its exploration of universal themes of love, status, and the complexities of human relationships, reminding us that true fulfillment lies not in external validation, but in the cultivation of authentic connections. Lawson uses humor to deliver a poignant message about the importance of cherishing genuine love over societal expectations.