Belonging is an ambiguous concept that is fundamental to ones overall wellbeing, without this significant value a person may lack a sense of identity and meaningful connections. This notion of belonging can be either enriched or challenged through association with culture and places. These relationships are portrayed in Peter Skrzynecki’s Immigrant Chronicles, specifically in his poem’s 10 Mary Street and St Patrick’s Collage.
Affinities to cultures can influence a sense of kinship and encourage a strong sense of identity. Peter Skrzynecki’s 10 Mary Street outlines the evident connections to culture, depicted by the persona’s family. Skrzynecki illustrates the importance and crucial need for culture to gain personal identity. “Kept pre-war Europe alive” the use of personification and the words “kept” and “alive” expresses the major influence and value of their polish roots. “Photographs and letters/ Heated discussions/And embracing gestures” the utilisation of litany highlights that although they have adapted into a new culture, memories of their homeland still hold a significant aspect of their present life. “Visitors that ate/Kielbasa” this is a symbolic representation of Poland which reinforces the idea of culture being apart of someone’s identity which empowers a sense of inclusion, security and connectedness. If one is put in a position where they don’t share similar views, isolation and detachment can arise which is depicted in St Patrick’s Collage.
While 10 Mary Street portrays feelings of affiliation, St Patrick’s Collage describes negative feelings and disconnection when one lacks a shared cultural beliefs. The tone in St Patrick’s collage reflects tension, as the persona has no control over his future, which ultimately leads to a barrier in association. “Mother enrolled me at St Pat’s” this is expressed in a highly passive tone, which illustrates the notion of the persona’s life being dictated