Essay Questions

What is Malouf’s opinion regarding transience?

Largely, David Malouf thinks that life has little meaning because its ultimate end is death. He portrays Jim as a character who loves his life as if he will not die. Jim is a botanist and he loves working around nature. After getting an opportunity to work at the estuary, he feels enthusiastic because the prospect connects well with his infatuation. After leaving the estuary, he goes to participate in a war where he meets his brutal death. According to Malouf, a person like Jim does not deserve to die because he has a deep love for nature and the world.

How does David Malouf demonstrate that nature and life have to continue despite the brutality of death?

In Fly Away Peter, the author demonstrates that there is a complete contrast between death and life continuity. Death is brutal but it can only end the life of the person who dies. The rest of the people and nature have to continue moving forward. The life of nature does not stop when Jim dies. Imogen receives the news of the sudden death of Jim with disbelief but he comforts himself that life has to continue.

Why is Jim taking a bold decision to participate in World War I against the Germans?

Even though Jim is not equipped to participate in the war, he goes ahead to take part because he cannot endure the evils of war. The World War is devastating because it results in the massive loss of property and life. When he starts taking part in the war, Jim can see how people are murdered and mercilessly killed before his eyes. He sees people being blown off by bullets including his close friend Clancy. His motivation is that he can offer his support regardless of the danger that lies before him. Unfortunately, he ends up being killed just like his friend Clancy.