Poem Analysis - The Bosss Boots

A Satirical Glimpse into Shearer Life

Henry Lawson's "The Boss's Boots" offers a humorous and critical portrayal of life in an Australian shearing shed. The poem's tone is primarily satirical, poking fun at the anxieties and performative diligence of shearers under the watchful eye of the boss. While lighthearted, it also hints at the harsh realities of their labor and the power dynamics at play. The poem’s mood shifts subtly as it moves from generalized observations to a specific anecdote, culminating in a moment of comic relief and social commentary.

Exploitation and Performative Labor

One central theme is the exploitation of labor. The shearers are constantly aware of the boss's presence, symbolized by his boots, and modify their behavior accordingly. Lines like "when the Boss is looking on, they like to be aware" and "pink ’em nice and pretty when you see the Boss’s boots" illustrate how their work is driven not by intrinsic motivation or pride, but by fear of reprimand and the desire to appear productive. This performative aspect highlights the power imbalance between the boss and the workers, where appearances are more important than genuine quality. The poem suggests that the shearers are forced to prioritize pleasing the boss over the ethical treatment of the sheep, as demonstrated by the instruction to "skim it by the tips at times, or take it with the roots," depending on who's watching.

The Illusion of Social Mobility

The poem also touches upon the theme of social mobility, albeit in a cynical manner. The stanza starting with "Ye sons of sin that tramp and shear" presents a satirical vision of upward mobility: "And you may own a station yet and wear the Boss’s boots." This line is ironic, as it suggests that the only way to escape exploitation is to become an exploiter oneself. The "Boss's boots" become a symbol of power and status, but the poem implies that achieving this status comes at the cost of perpetuating the cycle of exploitation. This is further emphasized by the poem's close, which mirrors the opening stanza, showing the rousers adopting the same watchful, performative behavior, thus continuing the cycle.

The Boots as a Symbol of Authority

The most prominent symbol is undoubtedly the "Boss's boots." They represent authority, surveillance, and the pressure to conform. The shearers' obsession with the boots signifies their constant awareness of the boss's judgment and the need to present a façade of diligence. The boots are described as "larger boots than many Western men," suggesting an inflated sense of self-importance on the part of the boss. The anecdote involving the picker-up wearing the cast-off shoe is particularly revealing. It highlights the absurdity of the situation and the lengths to which the workers will go to mimic authority. Bogan Bill’s violent reaction to the deception underscores the deep-seated resentment and frustration caused by the boss's overbearing presence. But perhaps the poem is also showing us that the "Boss's Boots" is a fragile position indeed, as the boss is outside consulting with the cook as the rouser plays at being him.

Lawson's Lasting Commentary on Class

In conclusion, "The Boss's Boots" is a cleverly crafted satirical poem that explores themes of labor exploitation, social mobility, and the power dynamics within a shearing shed. The recurring symbol of the "Boss's boots" effectively conveys the constant surveillance and pressure experienced by the shearers. Through humor and irony, Lawson offers a poignant commentary on the realities of working-class life in Australia and the enduring allure and corrupting influence of power. The poem’s strength lies in its ability to expose the subtle and not-so-subtle ways in which authority can shape behavior and perpetuate inequalities, reminding us of the importance of questioning established hierarchies.