Poem Analysis - The Mitchells

A Portrait of Australian Identity

Les Murray's "The Mitchells" offers a seemingly simple snapshot of rural Australian life, focusing on two men working on a roadside. The poem is imbued with a quiet dignity and a subtle sense of both connection and isolation. The tone is observational and respectful, shifting from a descriptive scene-setting to a more reflective and subtly humorous contemplation of identity. It’s a poem about place, work, and the enduring character of people rooted in the land.

Echoes of the Land: Setting the Stage

While specific historical events aren't directly referenced, it's important to acknowledge that Les Murray often wrote about the experiences of rural Australians, particularly those who felt overlooked or unheard by the dominant urban culture. The poem evokes a sense of the harsh realities of rural life, symbolized by the mention of "drought" and the phrase "trying to farm the road." This subtly speaks to the challenges faced by many Australian farmers and the resilience required to survive in often unforgiving conditions. The very act of raising a pole, possibly for electrical wires, hints at connecting remote areas to a wider world, yet also underscores their existing isolation.

Ritual and Identity: The Heart of the Poem

One of the main themes explored is identity, specifically how it is tied to place and community. The repetition of "I'm one of the Mitchells" is not just a statement of name but an affirmation of belonging, a declaration of shared experience and heritage. The poem also touches upon the theme of resilience. The drought, the hard work, and the simple meal all point to a life lived close to the land, requiring adaptability and strength. The subtle amusement mingled with pain in the second man's response hints at the hardships endured but also the ability to find humor and perspective in adversity. A recurring theme of connection is shown in their shared work, meal, and sense of place. They are connected to each other through their labour and connection to the land itself.

Imagery and Symbolism: Painting a Picture

The poem uses vivid imagery to create a strong sense of place. The "unthinning mists of white bursaria blossom" and the "noon of wattles" evoke a distinctly Australian landscape. The "styrofoam box with a handle" containing "big meat sandwiches" is a mundane detail that speaks volumes about the simplicity of their lives and the unpretentious nature of their work. The "oil-stained felt hat" is a recurring symbol of practicality and experience, suggesting a life lived outdoors and a refusal to abandon one's roots, even in the face of potential wealth. The pole itself could symbolize a connection, bridging gaps and bringing modernity to the bush, or the weight of the expectation and isolation of people who live far from others.

The Enduring Significance of "The Mitchells"

In conclusion, "The Mitchells" is a deceptively simple poem that explores complex themes of identity, resilience, and connection in the Australian landscape. Through vivid imagery and understated language, Murray captures the essence of a particular way of life, one that is both challenging and deeply meaningful. The poem invites us to consider the importance of place, the enduring power of community, and the quiet dignity of those who work the land. The ambiguity surrounding the "Mitchells" and their connection sparks contemplation: are they family, neighbors, or simply men sharing a common identity and heritage?