Examines the use of Satire within eminent australian poet , Bruce Dawe's, work.

Satire is defined as the use of wit, especially irony, sarcasm, and ridicule, to attack the vices and follies of humankind. In the context of literature and especially poetry it can also be used to persuade the reader of the authors/poets viewpoint and also to point out the authors conception of various flaws in the way society is run, various lifestyles and various traditions/rituals. Bruce Dawe an eminent Australian poet often uses the …

…the futility and materialistic nature of life and displays these themes very cleverly. ? A Victorian Hangman Tell His Love ? has the one main device being comparing the two incongruent things, death and love resulting in a very ironic poem, making the reader see the satire and developing the theme in their mind. Through their respective techniques the two poems have succeeded in bringing forth their themes and also the poets thoughts about the Australian lifestyle.