Poem Analysis - The Bursting Of The Boom

Overview of "The Bursting of the Boom"

Henry Lawson's "The Bursting of the Boom" paints a cynical and despairing picture of a gold rush, likely in Western Australia during the late 19th century. The poem begins with a promise of opportunity arising from an economic downturn, but quickly descends into a depiction of exploitation, greed, and moral decay. The tone shifts from optimistic anticipation to bitter disillusionment and ultimately, apocalyptic dread. Lawson uses repetitive refrains and stark imagery to underscore the corrupting influence of the gold rush fever.

Context of Colonial Australia

While not explicitly stated, it is beneficial to consider the poem's backdrop of colonial Australia and Henry Lawson's background. Lawson was known for writing about the harsh realities of Australian bush life and the struggles of the working class. The gold rushes of the late 19th century attracted people from all over the world, hoping to make their fortunes. However, the reality often fell short of the dream, leading to exploitation, hardship, and a breakdown of social values. This context enriches the understanding of the poem, highlighting the social commentary embedded within Lawson's work.

The Illusion of Opportunity

One of the main themes in the poem is the illusory nature of opportunity. The refrain "So wait till the Boom bursts! we'll all get a show" initially suggests a chance for advancement when others are retreating. However, as the poem progresses, this promise is revealed to be a cruel deception. The "show" turns out to be one of being cheated, exploited, and forced to endure terrible conditions. The dream of wealth is replaced by the harsh reality of survival, with the "Bursting of the Boom" becoming a symbol of dashed hopes rather than genuine opportunity.

Greed and Exploitation

Another prominent theme is the pervasive nature of greed and exploitation. Lawson vividly portrays how the gold rush transforms individuals into predators. From the shipping clerks who overcharge for passage to the business owners who exploit newcomers with inflated prices and poor service, everyone is trying to profit from the desperation of others. The poem reveals a society where basic human decency is sacrificed for financial gain, highlighting the corrupting influence of unchecked avarice. The repeated references to being cheated and overcharged emphasize the brutal reality of this exploitative environment.

The Loss of Humanity

The poem also explores the theme of dehumanization. The line "They ship us West with cattle, and we go like cattle too" establishes a sense of people being reduced to mere commodities. As the poem progresses, this dehumanization becomes more pronounced, with characters engaging in vile and selfish behaviors. The final stanza, with its depiction of a lawless and immoral society, suggests a complete breakdown of human connection and empathy. The image of "western hells that God forgot" underscores the utter desolation and moral decay at the heart of the gold rush.

Recurring Imagery of Deception

The poem utilizes several recurring symbols to convey its message. The "Bursting of the Boom" itself is a central symbol, representing not just an economic downturn, but also a moment of reckoning when the true cost of the gold rush is revealed. The vivid images of being cheated, exploited, and forced to endure squalid conditions all contribute to a sense of disillusionment. The mention of "the Devil laugh[ing]" at the end of the poem suggests that the suffering and moral degradation are almost diabolical in their scope, highlighting the destructive nature of unchecked greed.

Conclusion: A Warning Against Greed

In conclusion, "The Bursting of the Boom" is a powerful and unsettling poem that exposes the dark side of the gold rush mentality. Lawson uses vivid imagery, a shifting tone, and recurring symbols to create a bleak portrayal of a society consumed by greed and exploitation. The poem serves as a cautionary tale, warning against the dangers of unchecked ambition and the potential for economic booms to mask underlying moral decay. The final image of the Devil laughing leaves the reader with a profound sense of unease, suggesting that the consequences of such greed are far-reaching and devastating.