Poem Analysis - The Moon Man

A Celestial Arrival and its Earthly Impact: An Introduction

Les Murray's "The Moon Man" is a deceptively simple poem that contemplates the profound impact of the moon on our world. It begins with a natural, almost prosaic, scene of kangaroos and a drive through a paddock, before transitioning into a mystical meditation on the moon's origin and its ongoing influence. The tone shifts from observational to reverential as the poem progresses, revealing a sense of awe and gratitude for this celestial body and its connection to earthly existence.

The Weight of First Birth: Exploring Creation and Dependence

One central theme of the poem is the idea of creation and its lasting consequences. The moon is personified as the "Moon man, the first birth ever," suggesting a primal, foundational event. This "first birth" isn't just any birth, but one that was "fully grown." The image of the moon "massaging his mother / and sends her light" underscores a continuous cycle of dependence and nurturing. This implies that the moon, despite its apparent autonomy, remains connected to its origin and actively sustains it. The verb "massaging" is gentle and nurturing, showing the light sent isn't a duty but a caring act. The poem proposes that the origin and its ongoing influence still permeate existence.

Brilliance in the Blood: The Enduring Impact

The poem also grapples with the theme of the enduring impact of significant events. The statement "His brilliance is in our blood" suggests that the moon's existence is deeply intertwined with our own. It's not just a distant object in the sky but a fundamental part of our being, influencing us on a biological or even spiritual level. The brilliance suggests a type of truth that humans have. The poem implies that the moon's presence has shaped not just the Earth but also the very essence of humanity.

Healing and Limitation: The Price of Perfection

Finally, the poem explores the paradox of perfection and its limitations. The lines "Had Earth fully healed from that labour / no small births could have happened" present a fascinating idea. The "labour" of the moon's birth, though momentous, left Earth in a state of perpetual healing. Had the Earth fully recovered, the poem suggests, the capacity for small, incremental births – the everyday processes of life – would have been impossible. This implies that imperfection and ongoing processes of change are necessary for life and growth to continue, it needs some sort of wound for new things to happen.

Lunar Luminosity: Decoding the Poem's Symbolism

The central symbol in the poem is, of course, the moon itself. It represents not just a celestial body, but also the concept of origin, influence, and ongoing connection. The image of the moon sending light is powerful, symbolizing sustenance and guidance. The phrase "midnightish curd sky" creates an interesting image of the sky and emphasizes the fullness of the moon, while adding an earthly quality. What exactly is the nature of this healing process the Earth is going through? Is it literal or metaphorical? The poem leaves this open to interpretation, inviting the reader to contemplate the complex relationship between the cosmos and our own existence.

A Profound Connection: Concluding Thoughts

In conclusion, "The Moon Man" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that explores the profound connection between the moon and humanity. Through vivid imagery and subtle symbolism, Murray delves into themes of creation, influence, and the enduring impact of significant events. The poem reminds us that even seemingly distant celestial bodies can have a profound effect on our lives, shaping our very existence in ways we may not fully understand. It’s a celebration of the past, a meditation on the present, and a quiet acknowledgment of the forces that continue to shape our world.