Poem Analysis - A Retrospect Of Humidity

A Season of Discomfort: Introduction

Les Murray's "A Retrospect of Humidity" paints a vivid, almost visceral, portrait of Australia's humid season. The poem opens with a sense of relief as the worst is over, but quickly plunges into a descriptive recollection of the oppressive heat and its effects on both the environment and the people experiencing it. The tone is largely negative, bordering on disgusted, as Murray catalogues the discomfort and decay brought on by the humidity. However, towards the end, there is a subtle shift towards acceptance and even a hint of anticipation for the coming change.

The Burden of Weather: Oppression and Discomfort

A central theme of the poem is the oppressive nature of extreme weather and its impact on human experience. Murray uses a barrage of unsettling imagery to convey the feeling of being overwhelmed by the humidity. The "rancid saline midnights of orifice weather" suggest a stifling and suffocating atmosphere. The discomfort is not merely physical but also psychological, as seen in phrases like "throbbing heads grow lianas of nonsense." The poem emphasizes how the environment can dictate mood and even behavior, reducing individuals to a state of irritability and resignation.

Beyond the Surface: Social Disconnection and Inequality

The poem subtly touches on themes of social disconnection and inequality. While most people experience the discomfort of the humidity as a temporary inconvenience, Murray contrasts this with the experiences of those living in poverty or facing hardship. He references "ulcers scraped with a tin spoon" and "sweated faces bowing before dry," evoking images of desperate poverty and exhaustion. This juxtaposition highlights the privilege of those who can escape the humidity and underscores the suffering of those who are trapped in it. The "festive northbound jets gaining height" symbolize the escape routes available to some, while others remain grounded in their discomfort.

A Symphony of Sensations: Vivid Imagery and Symbolism

Murray employs a rich tapestry of imagery to capture the sensory experience of humidity. The recurring image of "skin" becomes a symbol of vulnerability and exposure, as "skins, touching, soak each other." This suggests a loss of individuality and a feeling of being merged with the oppressive environment. The "hibiscus drops its browning wads" serves as a potent symbol of decay and the transient nature of beauty. Even the "Lycra-bulging surf drips from non-swimmers" creates a distinct visual, combining the man-made with the natural world in a way that feels slightly unsettling. The final image of the "risen loaf of cat on a cool night verandah" offers a symbol of warmth, comfort, and domesticity, signifying the relief that comes with the changing weather.

Cycles of Forgetfulness: A Concluding Retrospect

In conclusion, "A Retrospect of Humidity" is a powerful exploration of the human relationship with extreme weather, touching on themes of oppression, social inequality, and the cycle of memory and forgetfulness. Murray's evocative imagery and unflinching portrayal of discomfort create a lasting impression of the oppressive Australian summer. The poem ultimately suggests that while the physical discomfort may fade, the memory of the experience lingers, subtly shaping our understanding of the world and our place within it. The final lines hint at a hopeful return to normalcy, but the lingering impact of the humidity serves as a reminder of our vulnerability to the forces of nature.