Poem Analysis - Rewi To Grey

A Final Wish and a Testament to Brotherhood

Henry Lawson’s "Rewi To Grey" is a poignant farewell from a dying man to his brother, Rewi. The poem speaks of companionship, a shared history, and the desire for lasting unity in death. The tone is initially melancholic, tinged with the acceptance of mortality, but it evolves into a firm and resolute expression of brotherly love and a longing for remembrance. It’s a simple yet profound plea for a shared legacy, a single stone to mark their bond.

The Significance of Shared Identity

One of the central themes of the poem is brotherhood and unity. The speaker emphasizes their shared experiences ("We have lived till these times, brother,/We who lived in this;") and expresses a deep connection with Rewi. This bond transcends racial or cultural differences, as highlighted by the phrase "Be they white or brown –". The wish for a single stone with both their names on it powerfully symbolizes their inseparable identities and their desire to be remembered together. This suggests the speaker values their relationship with Rewi above all else, seeing it as a defining aspect of his life.

Acknowledging Mortality and Seeking Remembrance

The poem grapples directly with the theme of mortality. The speaker acknowledges his impending death ("Rewi’s first! For I am dying") and reflects on the brevity of life. However, this awareness of death is not filled with despair but rather fuels a desire for lasting remembrance. The recurring image of the "one stone above us" acts as a symbol of permanence in the face of death. It's a way to defy oblivion and ensure that their bond is not forgotten. The speaker's great wish is a simple one, but it speaks volumes about his longing for a legacy, however modest, to outlive him.

Transcending Division: A Symbol of Harmony

Another prominent theme is the transcendence of division, be it racial, cultural, or even the separation of life and death. The line "Be they white or brown –" suggests a wish for unity beyond racial boundaries, emphasizing the importance of human connection over superficial differences. The shared gravestone symbolizes not only their brotherhood but also a broader message of inclusivity and acceptance. The image of their names inscribed on opposite sides of the same stone further reinforces this idea of unity within diversity. It is a powerful symbol of reconciliation and shared humanity.

Concluding Thoughts: A Simple Wish, a Profound Meaning

In conclusion, "Rewi To Grey" is a moving testament to brotherhood and the enduring power of human connection. Through simple language and powerful imagery, Lawson explores themes of mortality, unity, and remembrance. The recurring symbol of the shared gravestone encapsulates the speaker's deepest wish: to be remembered alongside his brother, Rewi, as a symbol of their unbreakable bond and a testament to the possibility of unity across differences. The poem's significance lies in its heartfelt simplicity and its profound message of love and acceptance in the face of death.