Poem Analysis - The Crucifixion

A Stark and Cynical Retelling

Henry Lawson's "The Crucifixion" is a brutal and cynical retelling of the biblical story. The poem avoids religious sentimentality, presenting the event as a raw, visceral act of violence and betrayal. The tone is detached and almost journalistic in its initial description, shifting to one of bitterness and condemnation as the poem progresses. Lawson emphasizes the human cruelty and hypocrisy inherent in the event, suggesting that such an act is not confined to a specific historical moment, but rather a recurring pattern in human behavior.

Echoes of Social Injustice: Lawson's Context

While "The Crucifixion" deals with a universal narrative, understanding Lawson's Australian context adds another layer to its interpretation. Lawson was a prominent figure in the Australian literary nationalism movement, often writing about the hardships faced by working-class Australians. His focus on social injustice and the plight of the common person resonates strongly with the poem's portrayal of a man persecuted for his goodness and truth. The poem can be seen as a broader commentary on the mistreatment of those who challenge the status quo, a theme prevalent in Lawson's other works.

The Truth, Hypocrisy, and Recurring History

One of the central themes is the rejection of truth and goodness. The poem highlights that the man was murdered "Because He had been good to men, / Because He told the truth." This suggests that his virtue was a threat to the established order, which preferred ignorance and self-preservation. Another important theme is the hypocrisy of humanity. Lawson emphasizes this when he describes the people who now "worship in cathedrals now, / They call Him Son of God," yet implies they would commit the same crime again if given the chance. The most disheartening theme is the cyclical nature of history, the idea that human nature remains unchanged and that the same injustices are repeated across time: "The same poor human nature now, / As it has ever been."

Flies, Thongs, and Thirst: Imagery of Desecration

The poem is filled with stark and unsettling imagery that underscores the brutality of the event. The "thongs of hide" used to secure the victim highlight the deliberate and calculated nature of the violence. The image of the "loathsome desert flies" swarming around the dying man is particularly powerful, symbolizing the desecration of his body and the utter abandonment he experiences. The detail of his "parched" throat and throbbing temples paints a vivid picture of his physical suffering, making the reader confront the sheer agony of his final hours. The "gourd" of water symbolizes simple kindness and that simple kindness came too late.

The Nazarene: A Symbol of Eternal Persecution

The recurring references to "the Nazarene" near the poem's end are significant. It isn't just about a person. By referring to him in this way, Lawson is framing the crucifixion not as a unique event, but as a representation of a broader pattern of persecution. The phrase implies that anyone who dares to challenge the status quo, who embodies goodness and truth, is likely to face a similar fate. What Lawson implies, but does not explicitly state, is what lessons should be learned from this story, and what changes, if any, will we make.

A Timeless Tragedy

In conclusion, Lawson's "The Crucifixion" is a powerful and unsettling poem that strips away the religious sentimentality often associated with the story of the crucifixion. By focusing on the raw brutality of the event and highlighting the themes of hypocrisy, rejection of truth, and the cyclical nature of injustice, Lawson creates a timeless commentary on human nature. The poem serves as a stark reminder of the potential for cruelty and the enduring relevance of the story of the Nazarene, who is forever a symbol of the persecution of the innocent.