Poem Analysis - The Men Who Come Behind

A Cynical View of Ambition and Imitation

Henry Lawson's "The Men Who Come Behind" is a bitter and cynical commentary on the pervasive nature of imitation and the cutthroat competition that underlies human ambition. The poem paints a portrait of individuals who lack originality and courage, instead choosing to leech off the success and innovation of others. Lawson's tone is largely scornful, tinged with weariness and a sense of resignation. While the overall mood is pessimistic, there are fleeting moments of defiance, urging readers to forge their own paths.

The Parasitic Nature of Imitation

One of the central themes of the poem is the parasitic nature of imitation. Lawson vividly illustrates this through the extended metaphor of the "men who come behind." These individuals are depicted as opportunists who capitalize on the hard work and ingenuity of others. The oyster shop example is particularly effective. It shows how someone takes an initial risk and invests, only to have their idea copied once success is guaranteed. This highlights the poem's exploration of the lack of originality and the ease with which others exploit innovation. The poem laments this behavior, showing how innovation suffers when those who create do not reap the rewards of the work, but rather the rewards are exploited by those who "come behind".

The Scourge of Journalism and Creative Fields

Another prominent theme revolves around the suffocation of creativity, especially within journalistic and artistic spheres. Lawson specifically targets "journalistic imitators" as the "meanest of mankind," emphasizing the destructive impact of uninspired work. He describes how "the grandest themes are hackneyed by the pens that come behind," illustrating how originality is diluted and ultimately ruined by constant repetition. This theme resonates powerfully, suggesting that true innovation requires courage and a willingness to venture into uncharted territory, rather than simply rehashing existing ideas.

The Allure and Danger of Following the Leader

The poem explores the paradoxical allure and danger of following a leader. Initially, the "men who come behind" follow closely, even offering superficial support. However, this loyalty is conditional and self-serving. As soon as the leader shows signs of success, the followers become competitors, actively seeking to surpass and undermine them. The image of "trip[ping] you up and baulk[ing] you in their blind and greedy heat" is especially potent, conveying the ruthlessness and lack of foresight that characterize these individuals. The "stupid pup that hasn't learned to trail behind your feet" provides an image of how those who follow without understanding often do more harm than good.

A Call to Forge One's Own Path

The poem concludes with a call to action, urging readers to reject imitation and embrace originality. Lawson encourages individuals to "go and strike across the country where there are not any tracks!" This powerful image symbolizes the importance of forging one's own path, even if it means facing uncertainty and hardship. While the poem acknowledges the difficulties of breaking free from the cycle of imitation, it ultimately emphasizes the value of independence and self-reliance. By leaving the final subject "to be hackneyed by the fellows in the rear" Lawson makes a final statement about the futility of engaging with those who lack original thought, creating a perfect and bitter ending to his poem.