Poem Analysis - Poem 39

Henry Lawson's "Poem 39" is an optimistic and forward-looking reflection on aging and the anticipation of a new decade. The poem expresses a sense of relief and hope, shifting from acknowledging past hardships to embracing the possibilities of the future. The overall tone is celebratory and resilient, punctuated by recurring exclamations of enthusiasm for the "Forties." It's a poem about looking ahead with strength and wisdom gained from experience.

Echoes of Hardship in the Australian Bush

While the poem is primarily about looking forward, it implicitly acknowledges Lawson's own struggles and the harsh realities of life in the Australian outback during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Lawson experienced poverty, hardship, and personal challenges throughout his life, which are subtly echoed in the descriptions of the speaker's difficult youth. The reference to being "a farm-drudge in the drought-time" and "a weary workshop slave" suggests the demanding labor and limited opportunities that were characteristic of rural and working-class life in Australia at the time. This context enhances the significance of the speaker's optimism and determination to find joy and fulfillment in the years to come.

Resilience and Reclaiming Lost Youth

One of the central themes of the poem is resilience in the face of adversity. The speaker acknowledges the "black and bitter" teens, the "cruel and blacker" thirties, and the struggles of the twenties, but focuses on the positive aspects of survival and growth. This resilience is directly linked to the theme of reclaiming lost youth. The speaker explicitly states the intention to "find time in the Forties, / To have some boyhood there." This suggests a desire to compensate for the hardships experienced in earlier years and to embrace a sense of carefree joy and adventure in the coming decade. It highlights the idea that it is never too late to experience the joys of youth.

The Promise of Wisdom and Experience

Another prominent theme is the value of experience and the wisdom it brings. The speaker notes the "noble" and "bravest" twenties, a time of "man to man in trouble" and fighting "for money or for praise," suggesting a period of intense activity and perhaps youthful recklessness. By contrast, the poem frames the forties as a time of both strength and wisdom ("the stronger Forties!" and "the wiser Forties!"). This suggests a transition from youthful impulsiveness to a more considered and balanced approach to life. The line, "I fought behind the scenes," implies that the speaker learned to navigate life's challenges with greater strategic thinking and perhaps a more introspective approach.

The Symbolism of "The Forties"

The recurring mention of "The Forties" acts as a symbol of hope, renewal, and future possibilities. It represents more than just a chronological age; it embodies a state of mind and a commitment to living life to the fullest. The repetition of the phrase, coupled with enthusiastic exclamations, creates a sense of anticipation and excitement. It is a symbol of personal agency and the belief that one can shape their own future, regardless of past experiences. Is "the good old Forties" meant ironically, reflecting the common fear of aging, or is it a genuine embrace of the maturity and freedom that come with it?

A Toast to the Future

In conclusion, "Poem 39" is a celebration of resilience, the potential for growth, and the power of a positive outlook. Through vivid imagery and a hopeful tone, Lawson creates a portrait of a speaker who has weathered life's storms and is now looking forward to a new chapter with renewed vigor and wisdom. The poem's significance lies in its ability to resonate with anyone who has faced adversity and is seeking to embrace the possibilities of the future, regardless of age or past experiences. It's a testament to the enduring human spirit and the belief that even after hardship, there is always the promise of a brighter tomorrow.