Poem Analysis - The Wantaritencant

A Haunting Literary Presence

Henry Lawson's "The Wantaritencant" is a darkly humorous and ultimately despairing poem about the overwhelming presence of self-doubt and the fear of creative inadequacy. The poem establishes a pervasive sense of anxiety, as the speaker is haunted by a monstrous "Thing" that embodies the urge to write without the ability to produce meaningful work. The tone shifts from an almost comical description of this entity to a somber recognition of its destructive power, culminating in the chilling prediction that it will destroy Australian literature itself.

The Crippling Fear of Inadequacy

One of the central themes is the paralyzing fear of creative inadequacy. The "Wantaritencant" symbolizes the inner critic, the voice that constantly whispers doubts and undermines the creative process. This theme is developed through vivid imagery, portraying the "Thing" as a grotesque and repulsive creature that "yells and slobbers, mows and whines." Its constant presence and negative influence are emphasized by phrases like "It follows everywhere" and "Its slime is ever on my work." The poem suggests that this internal struggle not only hinders individual creativity but also threatens the entire literary landscape.

The Corruption of Inspiration

Another significant theme is the corruption of inspiration. The poem suggests that the "Wantaritencant" not only prevents good writing but actively poisons the well of creativity. Lines like "It murders friendship, love and truth" imply that the fear of failure distorts the writer's perception of the world, making genuine expression impossible. The "Thing" acts as a filter, twisting potentially meaningful experiences into something grotesque and inauthentic. The phrase "It tantalized when great thoughts burned, in trouble and in want" powerfully illustrates how this internal saboteur thwarts the creative process at its most crucial moments.

A Monster of Self-Doubt: Imagery and Symbolism

The "Wantaritencant" itself is a powerful symbol. Its grotesque physical description – "greeny eyes aslant," "red and baleful glare," "slime" – represents the ugliness and repulsiveness of self-doubt. The poem uses vivid imagery to convey the overwhelming nature of this feeling. It's a "Scare, a Fright, a Ghast, a Gibber, and a Rant," highlighting its multifaceted and terrifying influence. The repeated assertion that it "wants to write, but can't" underscores the frustration and despair that come from being unable to express oneself effectively. Could the "Wantaritencant" also represent societal pressure on writers, the fear of failing to live up to expectations or producing work that is deemed unworthy?

A Legacy of Anxiety

In conclusion, "The Wantaritencant" is a powerful exploration of the crippling effects of self-doubt on the creative process. Lawson uses vivid imagery and a darkly humorous tone to depict the internal struggle of a writer haunted by their own inadequacies. The poem's lasting impact lies in its recognition of the universality of this experience, suggesting that the fear of failure is a constant companion for many artists. The chilling final prediction that this "Thing" will "kill Australian literature" underscores the devastating potential of unchecked self-criticism, leaving the reader with a haunting sense of unease about the future of creativity.