Poem Analysis - The Gentlemen Of Dickens

An Ode to Unconventional Heroes

Henry Lawson's "The Gentlemen Of Dickens" is a heartfelt tribute to the author's idealized vision of a gentleman, one far removed from societal expectations of wealth and status. The poem possesses a nostalgic and appreciative tone, celebrating the inner qualities of kindness, honesty, and self-sacrifice. This celebration is coupled with a gentle critique of superficial markers of gentility, such as titles and appearances. The poem concludes with a personal reflection, connecting the universal ideals to the speaker's own past.

Echoes of Dickens's Social Critique

While not explicitly stated, the poem implicitly acknowledges the social realities Dickens often portrayed. Dickens was known for his portrayals of poverty, social injustice, and the hypocrisy of the upper classes. Lawson's poem, by focusing on the inherent goodness of characters from various social strata in Dickens's novels, suggests a rejection of the strict class divisions prevalent in Victorian England (and likely, by extension, in Australia at the time of writing). Lawson may have been influenced by his own experiences, as he faced hardships and social inequalities, which might have made him empathize with Dickens's characters and their struggles.

The Theme of True Gentility

The central theme of the poem is the redefinition of what constitutes a "gentleman." Lawson explicitly contrasts the traditional image of a gentleman – someone with wealth, status, and proper etiquette – with his own ideal. He emphasizes that true gentility resides in inner qualities such as "kindness, / Their honesty and truth." The poem develops this theme by highlighting the apparent flaws of Dickens's characters: "mostly came embarrassed, / And stammering and uncouth," "gamblers now and then," and even "drunkards." However, these imperfections are ultimately overshadowed by their capacity for goodness and self-sacrifice, exemplified by Sidney Carton's ultimate act of redemption. The fact that they "speak their minds if need be / To ladies and to earls" reinforces their independence and moral courage, further cementing their claim to genuine gentility.

Names as Symbolic Indicators

The poem employs the names of Dickens's characters as symbols. The poet contrasts "fancy names / Like Reginald or Percy / Fitzgerald or FitzJames" with names like "Newman Noggs and Knubbles, / Toodles and Mr Toots." The former represent a superficial, often artificial, aristocracy, while the latter represent the common, relatable individuals who embody true kindness and honesty, even if their names sound "like hob-nailed boots." These ordinary-sounding names suggest a grounding in reality, in contrast to the more ostentatious and perhaps pretentious names of the upper class. The names become symbolic of the characters' authenticity and lack of affectation.

Self-Sacrifice as the Highest Virtue

The poem emphasizes the theme of self-sacrifice as the defining characteristic of a "gentleman." This is most powerfully conveyed through the example of Sidney Carton, who "washed all their sins away / When Sidney Carton died." Carton's willingness to give his life for another is presented as the ultimate expression of gentility, a selfless act that transcends social class and personal flaws. This act of sacrifice elevates him, and by extension all the "gentlemen of Dickens," to a level of moral greatness. While the poem acknowledges the imperfections of these characters, it ultimately suggests that their capacity for self-sacrifice is what truly defines them as "grandest on the earth."

An Enduring Legacy

In conclusion, "The Gentlemen Of Dickens" is a celebration of unconventional heroes, individuals who embody kindness, honesty, and self-sacrifice despite their social standing or personal flaws. Lawson uses vivid imagery, character names, and a nostalgic tone to redefine the concept of a "gentleman," emphasizing inner qualities over outward appearances. The poem ultimately suggests that these virtues are timeless and that the spirit of Dickens's characters continues to inspire and uplift, as reflected in the speaker's final, personal affirmation: "For I was once a gentleman, / Though it was years ago." This final line leaves the reader to ponder the nature of true gentility and its enduring relevance in the world.