Poetry and Power: Judith Wright’s Engagement with the Geopolitical Landscape of Australia

Abstract

This paper explores the geopolitical dimensions of Judith Wright’s poetry and activism, situating her as a key figure in Australia’s literary and political landscape. Through a close reading of her works, her engagement with the issues of land ownership, disposition of the indigenous population, environmental degradation and National identity is examined. Her poetic voice which is deeply connected to the Australian landscape, challenges the colonial history and the deep-rooted politics of the place. By the inclusion of Postcolonial theory and geopolitics, this paper helps in revealing the true intension of the writer which is both artistic and rebellious at the same time. Her contribution towards the Aboriginal land rights, environmental conservation that provides a solid ground which in turn helps in understanding the relationship of land, language, and power. By examining poetry like “Nigger’s leap: New England,” “Bora Ring,” “At Cooloolah,” her efforts in reminding the cruel historical past and the politics surrounding it, actively exposes the dark reality which resulted in the displacement of the indigenous population and the exploitation of the resources. It places her in the broader geopolitical discourse and efforts are made to uncover the challenges she faced while protecting the Great Barrier Reef and her struggle with the government. Her advocacy towards environmental Conservation surpasses boundaries and she became one of the pioneering figures in the field of Environmental conservation.