Lawson's uses of language to portray ideas about Australian identity and culture Jami Roberts 12th Grade

Language is a powerful tool that goes beyond a channel of communication, to shape both our individual and collective identity, and influence our cultural perspectives. Henry Lawson, also known as the “poet of the people '' was one of the most influential short story writers in the late 19th and early 20th century. Lawson intentionally used stylistic forms and features of language to help paint a picture of Australia’s bush identity in a realistic and un-romanticized way, which would challenge the beautified views of the harsh Australian landscape that were once shared by most of the Australian public. His detailed short stories are deeply personal and give insight into his values and beliefs and the common beliefs of remote Australians in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Through Lawson’s short stories, the notions of Australian identity and culture have changed from previously held ideas that were heavily influenced by our British heritage. Whilst Lawson’s craftsmanship reinforces stereotypes based on social classes and socializing, he boldly uses language to challenge aspects of identity and culture such as gender roles and the heroism of the bushman. Lawson’s authentic and unique views are portrayed strongly in his works ‘The...