Analysis

An analysis of Archie Weller’s short story “Going Home” tells us that the story follows a traditional plot structure with some non-linear elements added in, including several flashbacks. 

The main character is Billy Woodward, an Aboriginal man who returns to his camp after five years away from his people. The narrative presents Billy’s internal conflict, as he struggles with the way he perceives other Aboriginals. Billy’s family also takes part in the story, along with other Aboriginal characters. Their function is mainly symbolic, as they draw attention to the discrimination against Aboriginals and its effects.

The setting of the story is in Australia, with most of the plot unfolding in an Aboriginal camp. Several other locations are mentioned, particularly Billy’s college. The social setting explores aspects related to the life of Aboriginals and their culture, including issues such as racism, poverty, and identity. 

The events are described by a limited third-person narrator, who only has access to Billy’s thoughts and feelings. The narrator is mostly explicit when presenting the main events of the story, but implicit about Billy’s struggle with his identity.

The language of the story incorporates both Australian and Aboriginal slang terms, which helps make the setting come across as realistic, and serves to emphasize the cultural differences between Billy and his family. 

You can read the full analysis in the following pages.