Language is the building block of meaning in literary texts and ultimately what sets humans apart from all other creatures, our use of language and how it impacts the various cultures in the world help showcase the diverse ideologies of societies. “That Deadman Dance” by Kim Scott can be considered a fictional introspection on colonisation by the settlers and the important people of that time, as even though it is a fictional work, many of its characters and events are influenced by real historical evidence. The novel tells the story of first contact between the Aboriginal Noongar people and European settlers, it is told through the eyes of Bobby, the protagonist, who gets along well with both groups. A diverse array of linguistic choices are …show more content…
The incorporation of Noongar words into the predominantly English text enriches the narrative and asserts the presence and importance of the Noongar culture. These words of their language are shown in the text, such as, “Ngaalak waam”. Naatjil?” helps preserve the language and culture of the Noongar people and gives them a voice to speak with in their own native tongue. However, the dominance of English in the text also reflects the power dynamics inherent in language choice, with the Indigenous people and their language being considered lesser than the European people and English. The imposition of English on indigenous communities, as represented in the novel, mirrors the historical imposition of European culture and norms on Indigenous Australians. The novel subtly critiques this adverse power dynamic, even though it might adhere to it, in instances such as when Bobby talks about his uncle knowing English but keeping “his tongue away” as “it is not worth the sound of it”. This highlights the resilience of the Noongar language and culture amidst the pressure of …show more content…
However, his plea is ignored as the settlers remain indifferent, prioritising their own interests and narratives, thereby perpetuating the colonial power structures and ideologies. This indifference represents the dominant ideology of dispossession and cultural erasure, which Bobby attempts to challenge but ultimately fails. This harsh reality of colonisation is expanded on in Bobby’s speech as he points out how “strangers wanna take things for themselves and leave nothing” and how the European settlers are “messing up the water, cutting up the earth” ruining the environment in their greed. These actions of depleting resources, affecting the natural world, and marginalising the Noongar people, underscores the power dynamics at play. Eventually, Bobby’s optimism about peaceful coexistence and cultural exchange is shattered as he comes to see the reality of the situation, feeling a “terrible anxiety” upon this realization. To conclude, “That Deadman Dance” by Kim Scott is a profound exploration of the power dynamics, cultural clashes, and resilience of the Noongar people in the face of