Bessie and the Bunyip
By C. J. Dennis
Bessie met a bunyip down along the track,
In his hand a billy and a swag upon his back.
And you will hardly believe it, but when Bessie shouted,"Shoo!"
He turned a double somersault and went quite blue.
Poem Analysis:
C. J. Dennis, one of Australia’s most beloved poets, was known for his humorous and uniquely Australian style of writing. Bessie and the Bunyip is a short but whimsical poem that plays with elements of Australian folklore, particularly the mythical bunyip. With its playful tone and surprising imagery, the poem blends humor and folklore in a way that is both entertaining and memorable.
Context and Background
C. J. Dennis (1876–1938) was famous for his ability to capture Australian vernacular, culture, and humor in poetry. He often wrote in a lighthearted style, reflecting the everyday lives of Australians while incorporating myth and legend.
The bunyip is a creature from Aboriginal folklore, traditionally described as a mysterious and possibly dangerous water-dwelling entity. Over time, it has taken on various interpretations, ranging from a frightening monster to a more comical or misunderstood figure in Australian literature. In Bessie and the Bunyip, Dennis presents the bunyip in an amusing and unexpected way, subverting traditional fears surrounding the creature.
The Subversion of Mythical Fear
Traditionally, bunyips are described as fearsome creatures, lurking in swamps and billabongs, capable of terrifying or even harming those who encounter them. However, in this poem, the bunyip is not terrifying at all. Instead, when confronted by Bessie, he reacts in an absurdly comical way:
"And you will hardly believe it, but when Bessie shouted, 'Shoo!'He turned a double somersault and went quite blue."
Rather than being the feared predator, the bunyip is the one who is scared—so much so that he performs an acrobatic feat and turns blue in apparent shock. This humorous reversal challenges traditional notions of folklore, making the bunyip a subject of amusement rather than fear.
Humor and Exaggeration
Dennis employs exaggerated imagery to create a sense of fun and whimsy. The idea of a mythical creature reacting to a simple "Shoo!" by performing a double somersault and changing color is highly exaggerated, making the poem feel almost cartoonish.
This playful style is a hallmark of Dennis’ work, as he often used humor to make Australian folklore and rural life feel accessible and entertaining.
The Power of Confidence
Bessie, the protagonist, exhibits confidence and boldness. Rather than cowering in fear upon encountering the bunyip, she commands it to leave, and surprisingly, it obeys in the most dramatic fashion. This could be seen as a humorous commentary on how courage (even in the form of a simple "Shoo!") can overcome perceived threats.
Poetic Structure and Style
Dennis writes the poem in a simple and rhythmic form, making it easy to read aloud and almost song-like. This rhythmic quality contributes to its playful tone. The short, punchy lines enhance the comedic effect, quickly setting up the scene and delivering the humorous twist without unnecessary elaboration.
The language is straightforward and accessible, reinforcing the poem’s lighthearted nature. The use of direct action words like shouted and turned a double somersault adds to the energy and movement of the poem.
Bessie and the Bunyip is a delightful example of C. J. Dennis’ playful approach to Australian folklore. By flipping the traditional fear associated with the bunyip on its head, he turns the creature into a source of amusement rather than terror. The poem highlights themes of humor, exaggeration, and confidence while embracing the Australian tradition of storytelling with a uniquely lighthearted twist.
Through its charmingly absurd imagery and rhythmic style, Bessie and the Bunyip captures the essence of Dennis’ poetic humor, making it a fun and memorable piece that continues to entertain readers today.