Poem Analysis - Take It Fightin

Introduction: A Call to Unyielding Resistance

Henry Lawson's "Take It Fightin'" is a raw and rousing call to resilience in the face of adversity. The poem exudes a defiant tone, urging the reader to confront hardship head-on rather than succumbing to despair. Its repetitive structure and simple language amplify its message of unwavering determination. While the poem maintains a consistent tone of defiance, there's a subtle undercurrent of acknowledging the bleakness of the situations it describes, making the call to "take it fightin'" all the more vital.

Resilience as a Core Principle

One of the poem's central themes is the importance of resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. The repeated phrase "Take it fightin'" acts as a mantra, an unwavering instruction to confront challenges with courage and defiance. The poem never sugarcoats the harsh realities described; instead, it acknowledges situations where "you've got no chance at all" or when you're "down an' out an' utter." Yet, even in these moments of apparent hopelessness, the poem insists on fighting back. This theme is developed through the relentless repetition of the title phrase, hammering home the idea that resistance is always an option, even when defeat seems inevitable.

The Power of Fearlessness

Another significant theme is the power of fearlessness, embodied in the figure of "the fool you cannot frighten." This character is not necessarily unintelligent, but rather possesses a certain unflappable spirit that renders them immune to intimidation. The poem elevates this fearlessness to the level of kingship, suggesting that those who cannot be cowed hold a unique kind of power. This theme is developed in the recurring stanza, separating it from the direct instruction of the rest of the poem, suggesting that the power of fearlessness is a sort of reward to the individual that persists. The description "(That you cannot bluff nor frighten)" further highlights the impenetrable nature of this individual, reinforcing the idea that true strength lies not in avoiding fear, but in overcoming it.

The Symbolism of the "Gutter"

The image of being "put...in the gutter" functions as a powerful symbol of social and economic degradation. It represents the lowest point one can reach, a state of utter destitution and powerlessness. However, even in this abject state, the poem's message remains consistent: "Take it fightin'." The use of the "gutter" image is particularly evocative, conjuring a sense of urban decay and societal neglect. It highlights the harsh realities faced by many, especially during times of economic hardship, yet the poem's unwavering call to action suggests that even those relegated to the margins of society possess the capacity for resistance. This suggests that Lawson is not speaking to just the ordinary person, but a person at their very lowest point of being.

A Final Stand Against Despair

In conclusion, "Take It Fightin'" is a potent and enduring testament to the human spirit's capacity for resilience. Through its repetitive structure, simple language, and vivid imagery, the poem delivers a powerful message of defiance in the face of adversity. The poem's central theme of unwavering resistance, combined with the elevation of fearlessness and the stark symbolism of the "gutter," creates a compelling call to action. Ultimately, the poem suggests that even in the darkest of times, fighting back – even against insurmountable odds – is a worthwhile endeavor, a way to maintain dignity and assert one's humanity in the face of overwhelming forces.