The theme of Struggle in the Australian national identity and literature

Australian literature covers a wide range of works and genres with diverse subject matters, yet among these works, common themes can be discerned. In particular, the concept of struggle has been occupied widely by writers as a means of documenting Australian society and attitudes towards national identity and gender. Not only does Australian literature cover a wide range of components, but so does the Australian National Identity (ANI). Just like the concept of struggle has been highlighted in Australian literature, struggle can also be found in the ANI. Struggle—specifically seen in the landscape and war has been incorporated into the works of well-known Australian authors, Miles Franklin, AB Facey, and David Malouf. The first struggle which has influenced Australian society and literature is that of the landscape. A country’s landscape is more than just scenery; it is the interaction between people and place, the basis on which a society is built. Landscapes can offer enjoyment, tranquility, economic growth, and a sense of belonging to an area with a distinct cultural identity. The Australian landscape in particular has played a dominant role in the lives of the people who reside there. Although most Australians live in cities, the bush and bush life is seen as uniquely Australian and is integral in the ANI. The bush evoked themes of struggles through its harsh and hot climate which caused difficulty farming land, brought fatigue, and left all who inhabited it with no energy. It is this landscape that has inspired writers to document different lifestyles involving the land. The concept of struggle is highlighted in the novel, My Brilliant Career (1901) by the well-known author, Miles Franklin (1879-1954). The struggle in the environment can be seen when Sybylla, the novel’s protagonist, reveals the climate and just how hard making a living was in the bush. She says: But when 1894 went out without rain, and ’95, hot, dry, pitiless ’95 succeeded it, there