Poem Analysis - When The Bush Begins To Speak

A Call for Recognition and a Threat of Action

Henry Lawson's "When the Bush Begins to Speak" is a poem brimming with Australian national pride and a simmering resentment towards England's outdated perception of the country. The poem uses a confident and assertive tone, tinged with frustration, to convey Australia's growing sense of identity and its potential for decisive action. While the initial stanzas express indignation at being misunderstood, the later verses hint at a more forceful assertion of independence, suggesting a shift from passive complaint to a readiness for conflict. This culminates in a powerful, repeated refrain that acts as both a warning and a promise.

Echoes of Colonial History

Understanding the historical context enhances the poem's impact. As an Australian poet writing during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Lawson was acutely aware of the complex relationship between Australia and its colonial power, England. The poem reflects the burgeoning Australian nationalism of the time, a desire to be recognized as a distinct entity rather than simply an extension of the British Empire. The reference to "fathers" seeking "Truth and Liberty" evokes the historical motivations for immigration to Australia, suggesting a desire to fulfill the promise of a new, more just society, something distinct from the old world.

The Theme of National Identity and Independence

One of the poem's central themes is the development of a unique Australian national identity. The poem directly contrasts England's "fancy pictures that are fifty years too old" with the reality of a dynamic and evolving nation. The "men of southern destiny" are not found in the cities built "by the sea" (likely referring to the established coastal cities with closer ties to England), but "by many a western creek" – in the vast, untamed outback. This imagery suggests that the true spirit and future of Australia lie in its rugged interior, far from the influence of England. The repetition of "When the bush begins to speak" emphasizes the growing power and potential of this emerging identity, implying a moment when Australia will forcefully assert its own voice.

Greed Versus Authenticity

Another significant theme is the conflict between genuine Australian values and the encroaching threat of "Greed." The phrase "When the west by Greed's invaded" suggests a concern that the pioneering spirit and connection to the land are being threatened by exploitative forces, possibly related to land ownership or resource extraction. This juxtaposition of the authentic "bush" with the corrupting influence of "Greed" highlights the importance of preserving Australia's unique character and resisting the pressures of materialistic advancement at the expense of its soul. The poem warns that only when this threat arises will the true strength of the Australian spirit be revealed. The speaker is not necessarily speaking of greed only in monetary terms, but also, perhaps, the greed for power and control from a foreign power.

The Bush as a Symbol of Australian Potential

The "bush" itself functions as a potent symbol throughout the poem. It represents not only the Australian landscape, but also the heart and soul of the nation. It is a place of resilience, independence, and hidden strength. The personification of the bush – the idea that it will "speak" – implies a moment of awakening and action, suggesting that the land itself will inspire and empower the Australian people to fight for their identity and their future. This symbolic use of the land reinforces the idea that the true essence of Australia is rooted in its connection to nature and its pioneering spirit. This unique Australian spirit will rise up when the bush begins to speak.

A Nation on the Verge

In conclusion, "When the Bush Begins to Speak" is a powerful declaration of Australian national identity and a subtle call to arms. The poem captures the frustration of being misunderstood and the growing determination to assert independence. Through vivid imagery, particularly the recurring symbol of the "bush," Lawson conveys a sense of latent power and the potential for decisive action. The poem's significance lies in its articulation of a nation on the verge of self-discovery, ready to challenge outdated perceptions and forge its own destiny. It is a timeless expression of national pride and a reminder of the enduring connection between a people and their land.