Poem Analysis - The Native Born

A Toast to Identity: Introduction

Rudyard Kipling's "The Native-born" is a boisterous, celebratory poem that explores the complex identity of those born in British colonies. The poem unfolds as a series of toasts, each honoring a different aspect of colonial life and the emerging sense of belonging to a new homeland. While initially invoking ties to England, the poem quickly shifts its focus to the unique experiences and loyalties of the "Native-born," creating a sense of pride and distinctiveness. The tone is overwhelmingly enthusiastic and patriotic, though tinged with a hint of defensiveness against perceived misunderstandings from their English brethren. This vibrant piece ultimately crafts a powerful statement about forging a new identity while acknowledging the enduring legacy of the "mothers' land."

The Weight of Empire: Historical Context

Kipling was a staunch supporter of the British Empire, and his works often reflect the prevailing attitudes of the time, including a belief in British superiority and the "civilizing" mission of colonialism. Understanding this context is crucial to interpreting the poem. The late 19th and early 20th centuries were a period of intense imperial expansion, and the poem can be seen as an attempt to articulate the identity of those born within the colonies and to solidify their loyalty to the Empire, while simultaneously acknowledging their distinct cultural and geographical experiences.

Beyond Nostalgia: Shifting Loyalties

One of the poem's central themes is the tension between inherited British identity and the emerging sense of belonging to a new "native soil." While the poem begins by honoring the "Queen" and "our mothers' land," it quickly acknowledges that the "English brother" does not fully "understand." This distance is emphasized through contrasting imagery. While they "read of the English skylark," the native-born "screamed with the painted lories / As we rode on the dusty plains!" This juxtaposition highlights the disconnect between the idealized England of literature and the lived realities of colonial life. The poem asserts that "Our hearts where they rocked our cradle, / Our love where we spent our toil," placing the primary allegiance in the land of their birth and experience.

Icons of Identity: Vivid Imagery

The poem is rich with imagery that defines the colonial experience. The repeated references to specific landscapes – "the burned back-ranges," "the dusty plains," "the far-flung, fenceless prairie," "the smell of the baked Karroo" – serve as powerful symbols of the native-born's connection to their new homes. These landscapes are not merely backdrops but are intrinsically linked to their identities. Furthermore, the "five-meal, meat-fed men" and "tall, deep-bosomed women" suggest a sense of abundance and vitality associated with the colonial experience, contrasting with possible perceptions of British reserve or perceived lack of resources. The poem also uses vivid auditory imagery, from the "hush of the breathless morning / On the thin, tin, crackling roofs" to the "growl of the sluicing stamp-head," painting a vivid picture of the sensory experiences that shape the native-born identity.

Symbolic Bonds: Unity and Connection

The concluding stanzas of the poem introduce potent symbols of unity and collective strength. The "Cable-tow," described as stretching "From the Orkneys to the Horn / All round the world," represents the bonds of Empire, linking disparate colonies in a shared enterprise. The repeated call to "Stand up!" underscores a sense of collective pride and defiance, while the increasing "weight" of each "blow" – from single to six-fold – emphasizes the growing strength and solidarity of the "Native-born." The act of taking hands symbolizes not only unity but also a shared commitment to defending the "Little things we care about," suggesting that local loyalties and affections are as vital as grand imperial ambitions.

The Enduring Question: Conclusion

"The Native-born" is a complex exploration of identity within the context of the British Empire. It celebrates the unique experiences and loyalties of those born in the colonies, while simultaneously acknowledging their enduring connection to England. While the poem's patriotic tone and imperialistic undertones may be viewed critically today, it offers valuable insight into the social and cultural dynamics of the colonial era. The central question remains: how do individuals reconcile inherited identities with the realities of their lived experiences in new and diverse environments? Kipling's poem offers a perspective, albeit one steeped in its time, on this enduring human challenge.