Poem Analysis - The Aboriginal Cricketer

Introduction: A Game of Survival

Les Murray's "The Aboriginal Cricketer" is a compelling poem that uses the game of cricket as a metaphor for the challenges faced by Indigenous Australians in a post-colonial society. The poem adopts a tone of encouragement and caution, urging the cricketer to navigate the complexities of a world dominated by "their men's Law." There's a subtle undercurrent of danger, hinting at the potential for misunderstanding and exclusion. The poem subtly shifts from simple encouragement to a deeper reflection on cultural identity and resilience, using the cricket field as a stage for a larger social drama.

Historical and Social Context: Cricket as Metaphor

While specific details about the historical context of the poem are not explicit, it's crucial to understand Australia's colonial history and the ongoing struggle for recognition and equality by Aboriginal Australians. Cricket, a sport deeply ingrained in Australian culture (inherited from Britain), becomes a symbolic space where Indigenous individuals can both excel and face prejudice. The "men's Law" alludes to the established social order, dominated by non-Indigenous Australians, in which Aboriginal people must operate. Les Murray often addressed themes of national identity and social justice in his work, making it likely that he intended this poem as a reflection on the Aboriginal experience in Australia.

The Theme of Cultural Negotiation

One of the poem's central themes is the delicate negotiation of cultural identity within a dominant culture. The line "Don't come out of character" is particularly poignant. It suggests the cricketer must maintain a specific persona to avoid suspicion or being ostracized by the majority culture. The poem highlights the pressure to conform while also preserving one's own identity. It’s a tightrope walk where any perceived "idiosyncrasy of witchcraft" (a misunderstanding of cultural differences) could lead to negative consequences. The "church they do obey" further solidifies the idea of forced assimilation into an established social order.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Another prominent theme is resilience. The poem encourages the cricketer to "Keep fending off their casts," implying the need for constant vigilance and defense against challenges. The "willow shield" acts as a barrier, both literally and metaphorically, against potential harm or prejudice. The poet implores the cricketer to "Keep it noble. Keep it light," suggesting a need to maintain dignity and composure even under pressure. This underscores the strength and fortitude required to navigate a potentially hostile environment.

The Allure and Danger of Assimilation

The poem grapples with the paradoxical allure and danger of assimilation. While success within the dominant culture ("inside their men's Law") offers a form of recognition, it also carries the risk of losing one's cultural identity. The lines "Don't get out / too easily, and have to leave here" suggest a fear that succumbing to pressure and departing from his true self would mean exile from a place where, despite its challenges, he has found a place to exist. The phrase "where all missiles are just leather" highlights the controlled environment of the cricket field, a space where conflict is confined and regulated, contrasting perhaps with the less predictable battles outside.

Symbolism: Shields and Spears

The "willow shield" is a powerful symbol of defense and protection, simultaneously referencing the cricket bat and a more traditional form of Indigenous weaponry. It represents the cricketer's ability to navigate and resist the pressures of the dominant culture. The phrase "as if to face spears" evokes the historical conflicts between Indigenous Australians and colonizers, subtly linking the game of cricket to a history of struggle and survival. The image of "spears" also emphasizes the potential for unseen or misunderstood threats, highlighting the ongoing vulnerability of Indigenous people. What kind of other protective gear could be used to better illustrate this feeling?

Conclusion: A Lasting Impression

"The Aboriginal Cricketer" is a poignant and insightful poem that uses the sport of cricket as a metaphor to explore themes of cultural negotiation, resilience, and the complex relationship between Indigenous Australians and the dominant culture. Les Murray's work captures the challenges and triumphs of individuals navigating a world where cultural identity is both a source of strength and a potential target. Ultimately, the poem serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving one's identity and maintaining dignity in the face of adversity, even in the seemingly simple context of a game.