Poem Analysis - To Show What A Man Can Do

A Celebration of Courage and Action

Henry Lawson's "To Show What A Man Can Do" is a stirring tribute to unsung heroism, focusing on a fisherman who bravely rescues people from a shipwreck while others hesitate. The poem's tone is initially reflective and somber, acknowledging grander acts of sacrifice throughout history. However, it quickly transitions to admiration and inspiration as it recounts the fisherman's daring deeds, culminating in a call for similar acts of courage in the present. The poem ends with a simple, direct challenge to the reader.

Echoes of the Australian Bush Ballad Tradition

Lawson was a prominent figure in Australian literature, known for his bush ballads and short stories that often depicted the harsh realities and heroic spirit of the Australian outback. "To Show What A Man Can Do" resonates with this tradition. It celebrates the practical, unpretentious courage of an ordinary individual rather than glorifying military heroism or political figures. The setting of a coastal shipwreck would be familiar to Australians, and the fisherman embodies the resourcefulness and resilience often associated with the Australian identity.

Defining Heroism: Beyond Grand Gestures

One of the poem's central themes is the nature of heroism. Lawson contrasts the grand, often large-scale sacrifices made in war ("thousands have gone to certain death") with the individual act of bravery displayed by the fisherman. The poem suggests that heroism isn't solely defined by scale or self-sacrifice on a national level, but also by immediate, personal action taken to help others. By focusing on the fisherman's single scull and his repeated trips to the wreck, Lawson emphasizes that heroism can be found in simple, courageous acts performed by ordinary people.

The Urgency of Action: A Call to Courage

Another key theme is the necessity of action in the face of crisis. The lines "And we need such deeds in this world of ours, lest the hearts of men might fail" highlight a sense of urgency. Lawson argues that witnessing acts of bravery like the fisherman's is essential to maintaining hope and preventing despair. The phrase "never a word comes through" evokes a sense of helplessness and frustration, which the fisherman's actions directly counteract. He provides a powerful example, demonstrating that even in situations where communication and assistance seem impossible, individual action can make a crucial difference.

The Silent Plea and the Raging Hell: Powerful Imagery

Lawson utilizes vivid imagery to paint a picture of the shipwreck and the fisherman's bravery. The "eloquent gestures" coming from the wreck, combined with the inability to hear words, creates a powerful image of desperate need and silent suffering. This emphasizes the urgency and the moral imperative to act. The "raging hell" that the fisherman braves further highlights the danger and the magnitude of his courage. The single scull becomes a symbol of the individual's power to confront overwhelming odds.

The Simple Moral and Lasting Inspiration

In conclusion, "To Show What A Man Can Do" is a powerful affirmation of human courage and a call to action. It challenges the reader to recognize and embrace the potential for heroism within themselves. By focusing on the fisherman's selfless act, Lawson elevates the everyday individual, demonstrating that true heroism lies not in grand gestures but in practical, decisive action taken to alleviate the suffering of others. The poem’s final lines, a seemingly simple moral, serve as a lasting reminder that anyone can choose to act bravely and make a difference.