Theme and message

Importance of the past

The main theme of the poem “The Past” by Oodgeroo Noonuccal is the importance of the past and origins in defining people’s present identity.

The poet supports the idea that past and present are connected. According to the poem, a person is, at least partially, influenced by the past experiences of his/her ancestors:

“But a thousand thousand camp fires in the forest
Are in my blood.” 
(ll. 23-24)

Consider also how the poet suggests that the past and our origins contribute to present identity. She is both the woman next to the electric heater (l. 8), relaxing in a chair and the person that sits next to the fire in nature, in ancestral times (ll. 11-14)

Reflect also on some thematic questions the poem raises:

  • Can the past be accessed through dreams o
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