Poem Analysis - The Shanty On The Rise

Henry Lawson's "The Shanty On the Rise" is a nostalgic ode to a bygone era of Australian bush life. The poem paints a vivid picture of a simple, yet cherished, gathering place for rural workers, imbued with a sense of camaraderie and genuine joy. The tone is largely affectionate and reminiscent, tinged with a hint of melancholy as the speaker reflects on the passage of time and the loss of this simple way of life. While mostly lighthearted, the poem takes a somber turn towards the end, acknowledging the inevitable changes and losses that accompany time.

A Bush Oasis

One of the central themes in "The Shanty On the Rise" is the idea of community and belonging. The shanty serves as a hub for the bullock drivers and other bushmen, a place where they can find respite from their labors and connect with one another. The poem highlights the positive interactions and shared experiences within this community, such as the Christmas party and the impromptu musical performances. The line "You could smoke and drink in quiet, yarn, or else soliloquise, / With a decent lot of fellows in the Shanty on the Rise" emphasizes the accepting and convivial atmosphere of the shanty.

Simplicity and Purity

The poem also explores the theme of innocence and authenticity in contrast to the perceived artificiality of city life. The speaker explicitly states that the shanty, despite its rough exterior, is "better far and purer than some toney pubs I know." This suggests a critique of the social conventions and pretenses associated with urban environments, contrasting them with the genuine and unpretentious nature of the bushmen and their gathering place. The shanty represents a simpler, more honest way of life, free from the "mockery and sham" of the city "swarry."

The Inevitable Passage of Time

A final, underlying theme is the transience of life and the inevitability of change. While the poem is primarily a celebration of the shanty and the memories associated with it, the ending acknowledges that this world has largely disappeared. The speaker notes that "the Shanty vanished from the ranges long ago" and that many of his old companions have either moved on or passed away. This creates a sense of wistful nostalgia and underscores the ephemeral nature of even the most cherished experiences. The tragic death of Mary Carey at a young age further reinforces this theme of mortality.

Candle in the Window

The image of the "candle in the window" is a recurring symbol throughout the poem. It represents hope, guidance, and a welcoming presence. For the weary bullock drivers, the candle serves as a beacon, guiding them towards the comfort and camaraderie of the shanty. Even the bullocks themselves seem drawn to its light. The candle also symbolizes the warmth and hospitality offered by "Something-in-Disguise," the shanty's landlord, creating a welcoming space. This symbol contributes to the overall feeling of nostalgia and longing for a simpler, more connected past.

Final Reflections

"The Shanty On the Rise" is a poignant reflection on a vanishing way of life in the Australian outback. Through vivid imagery and a nostalgic tone, Lawson evokes a sense of community, authenticity, and the bittersweet passage of time. The poem celebrates the simple joys of life, the importance of human connection, and the enduring power of memory. Ultimately, the shanty becomes a symbol of a lost Eden, a place where the speaker found solace, friendship, and a sense of belonging.