Waratah And Wattle

By Henry Lawson

Ballad
    Though poor and in trouble I wander alone,     With rebel cockade in my hat,     Though friends may desert me, and kindred disown,     My country will never do that!     You may sing of the Shamrock, the Thistle, the rose,     Or the three in a bunch, if you will;     But I know of a country that gathered all those,     And I love the great land where the Waratah grows.     And the Wattle-bough blooms on the hill.     Australia! Australia! so fair to behold-     While the blue sky is arching above;     The stranger should never have need to be told,     That the Wattle-bloom means that her heart is of gold.     And the Waratah's red with her love.     Australia! Australia! most beautiful name,     Most kindly and bountiful land;     I would die every death that might save her from shame,     If a black cloud should rise on the stand;     But whatever the quarrel, whoever her foes,     Let them come! Let them come when they will!     Though the struggle be grim, 'tis Australia that knows     That her children shall fight while the Waratah grows,     And the Wattle blooms out on the hill.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a moving ode to Australia, characterized by its deep patriotism, vivid imagery, and an unambiguous tone of resolute love for the homeland. The poet skillfully employs the metaphor of native Australian flora, specifically the Waratah and Wattle, to symbolize Australia's beauty, resilience, and spirit. The Waratah, with its vibrant red color, is used to symbolize love and courage, while the golden Wattle is a sign of the nation's heart of gold. The repetition of "Australia! Australia!" serves to emphasize the poet's unwavering devotion and affection for his country.

The first few lines reveal the persona's solitary struggle and ostracization, which is immediately contrasted with his undying sense of belonging and loyalty to his country. This provides an overarching theme of steadfast patriotism that persists despite adversity. The poem's structure, alternating between personal reflection and a direct address to Australia, creates an emotional dialogue between the persona and his motherland. The concluding lines amplify this sentiment, expressing the persona's readiness to defend Australia against any threat. This introduces a martial element, adding a layer of dramatic intensity to the poem. Despite its personal undertones, the poem speaks to universal themes of love for one's country, resilience in hardship, and the importance of defending one's home, making it accessible and relatable to a broad audience.

Understanding Ballads

A ballad is a form of verse, often a narrative set to music, that has been a cornerstone of storytelling across various cultures. Traditionally passed down orally, ballads are known for their rhythmic structure and often tell tales of love, adventure, and heroism.

Ballads are characterized by their strong rhythm and repetition, making them both memorable and engaging. Here are some defining features:

  • Narrative Structure: Ballads typically tell a story, often a dramatic or emotional tale that unfolds in a straightforward, chronological order.
  • Quatrain Stanzas: Most ballads are composed of quatrains (four-line stanzas) with a rhyme scheme of ABAB or ABCB, which adds to the musicality of the verse.
  • Repetition: Refrains or repeated lines are common in ballads, helping to emphasize key themes or emotions and making the ballad easier to remember.
  • Oral Tradition: Many ballads originated from oral traditions, which means they were passed down through generations by word of mouth before being written down.

From medieval minstrels to contemporary songwriters, ballads have continued to evolve, remaining a beloved form of expression that captures the human experience in a way that is both poetic and accessible.