That Great Waiting Silence
The work explores themes of disillusionment and the search for purpose amidst societal change. It opens with a reflection on the contrast between past joy and present silence, highlighting a collective sense of waiting and uncertainty among the people. The imagery of a crowded holiday street filled with music and celebration is juxtaposed with a pervasive silence that suggests a deeper malaise. The narrator reminisces about a time when the spirit of the community was vibrant, marked by laughter and camaraderie. However, this joy has faded, replaced by a somber atmosphere that weighs heavily on the populace. The mention of Australian engineers and local goods evokes a sense of national pride, yet this pride is tempered by an underlying tension and anticipation of change. As the narrative progresses, it questions the direction of the community's efforts and the effectiveness of their leaders. The call for unity among workers, regardless of their trade, emphasizes the importance of collective action in shaping the future. The work ultimately advocates for a renewed commitment to the nation's destiny, urging individuals to contribute to the greater good and to remain vigilant in the face of challenges. The tone oscillates between hope and despair, reflecting the complexities of societal progress. The repeated motif of silence serves as a powerful reminder of the unspoken struggles and aspirations that lie beneath the surface of everyday life. The work concludes with a call to action, encouraging individuals to embrace their roles in building a better future for Australia, reinforcing the idea that the spirit of nation-building resides within the hearts of its people.
By Henry Lawson · First published 1892 · Genre: Poetry, Social Commentary, Australian Literature · 435 words
First lines
Where shall we go for prophecy? Where shall we go for proof? The holiday street is crowded, pavement, window and roof; Band and banner pass by us, and the old tunes rise and fall -- But that great waiting silence is on the people all!
Where is the cheering and laughter of the eight-hour days gone by? When the holiday heart was careless, and the holiday spirit high -- The friendly jostling and banter, the wit and the jovial call? But that great waiting silence is over the people all.
What this Textopian page supports
That Great Waiting Silence is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry Lawson, dated 1892 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Henry Lawson
- Date: 1892 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Social Commentary, Australian Literature, Political Literature, Historical Literature
- Length: 435 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and imagery typical of poetry.
- Social Commentary — The themes address societal issues, labor, and the collective experience of the people.
- Australian Literature — The poem reflects Australian identity and concerns, characteristic of the national literary tradition.
- Political Literature — The text engages with political themes, particularly regarding labor rights and national destiny.
Tags
Australian identity · Labour movement · Silence · Social commentary · National pride · Hope · Struggle · Unity · Working class · Change · Future · Protest