Poem Analysis - Possum A Lay Of New Chumland

Introduction: A Ballad of Transformation and Loss

Henry Lawson's "Possum: A Lay of New Chumland" is a poignant narrative poem that tells the story of an English immigrant's (a "new chum") experience in the Australian outback. The poem blends humor with pathos, chronicling the new chum's initial awkwardness, his gradual adaptation to bush life, and his ultimately tragic fate. The tone shifts from amusement and admiration to sorrow and reflection as the poem unfolds. Lawson uses a vernacular voice to create a sense of authenticity and immediacy, drawing the reader into the harsh yet compelling world of the Australian frontier.

The Metamorphosis of the New Chum

One of the poem's central themes is the transformation of the "new chum" from a naive, somewhat pretentious Englishman into a resilient and accepted member of the bush community. Initially, he is mocked and underestimated due to his appearance and lack of experience. The squatter's reaction, "yer needn’t think yer gorn ter come a-lardin’ over me!" reveals the skepticism and resentment towards newcomers. However, the new chum's determination to work hard, sell his possessions, and "’ump his bluey ninety mile" demonstrates his commitment to adapting to his new environment. This dedication earns him the respect of the other bushmen, who eventually accept him as one of their own, even giving him the nickname "Possum."

Hardship and Resilience in the Outback

The poem explores the theme of hardship and the resilience required to survive in the harsh Australian outback. The poem vividly describes the physical challenges faced by the new chum: the "tucker an’ the heat," the "everlastin’ trampin’," and the torment of flies and ants. The description of his poorly made damper and the boodie rats stealing his food emphasizes the difficulties of daily life. Yet, despite these hardships, the new chum maintains a cheerful attitude and even finds humor in his struggles, writing about them in his "darey" to amuse his family back home. This resilience highlights the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Mortality and the Unforgiving Land

A final, overarching theme is mortality and the unforgiving nature of the Australian landscape. Despite his adaptation and acceptance, the new chum succumbs to consumption, a disease exacerbated by the harsh living conditions. His death underscores the fragility of life in the outback and the constant struggle for survival. Even as he dies, he praises the country and takes responsibility for his own fate, stating, "if he’s got konsumption, why it ain’t the country’s fault." His final words, "For I’m gorn to ’ump my bluey through the gates ov Newchumland," suggest a journey beyond earthly hardship, but also an acceptance of his fate, and a final acknowledgement of his identity as a "new chum."

Symbolism: The Bluey as a Burden and a Badge

The "bluey" (a swag or bedroll) serves as a recurring symbol in the poem, representing both the burden of the new chum's journey and his acceptance into the bush community. Initially, humping the bluey ninety miles is a testament to his determination to overcome his privileged background and prove himself. Later, as he faces death, the bluey becomes a symbol of his life's journey and the hardships he has endured. His final image of "’ump[ing] my bluey through the gates ov Newchumland" suggests that even in death, he carries the mark of his Australian experience with him, transformed by the land and its challenges.

Conclusion: A Lasting Impression of the Australian Bush

"Possum: A Lay of New Chumland" is a powerful and moving poem that captures the essence of the Australian bush experience. Through vivid imagery, realistic vernacular, and a blend of humor and pathos, Lawson portrays the transformation of a naive immigrant into a resilient bushman who ultimately succumbs to the harsh realities of frontier life. The poem serves as a reminder of the challenges and hardships faced by early settlers, but also celebrates the strength of the human spirit and the enduring allure of the Australian landscape. The tragic fate of "Possum" leaves a lasting impression, prompting reflection on the themes of adaptation, mortality, and the enduring impact of the land on those who dare to call it home.