Bruce Dawe Homecoming Essay

‘Homecoming’ by Bruce Dawe, is a protest poem written in free verse, which portrays the futility of war in a confronting tone. This poem represents the author’s negative view towards Australia’s involvement in the dehumanizing event. Bruce Dawe creates meaning through the use of language techniques, which metaphorically allow him to speak on behalf of the mute, dead soldiers.

The title ‘Homecoming’ is used to contrast the traditional association of the word, with the shocking reality of war. In this instance, the title operates ironically, since the “homecoming” described is related to death and mourning. Dawe opens the poem with a monotonous tone, as displayed throughout the line: ‘they’re picking them up, those they can find”. The sombre nature of this line, expresses how war has stripped the soldiers of their identity.

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This poem strongly represents my own perspective of protest, as I naturally agree and appreciate the messages conveyed throughout. This image truly stimulated an emotional response, which made me feel a strong sense of pity for the fallen soldiers.

Over time, War has become a mournful and avoided topic, which must be resolved. ‘Peace’ by Pawel Kuczynski is a satirical image, which addresses this particular issue in a diplomatic manner. This visual piece has a dull tone, which protests against the sensitive topic and enables us to recognize that our decisions can also instigate the occurrence of war.

The significance of peace is conveyed through the way in which the young, innocent boy is intensely gazing and making a connection with his toy dove. The visual imagery and chosen colours help to evoke emotions such as pity and empathy. The darker colours are more intense on the outskirts, whilst the lighting and bright burnt orange colour in the middle gives the image a warm feeling, suggesting a sense of