Summer of the Seventeenth Doll,” written by Ray Lawler, is a quintessentially Australian play that delves into themes of nostalgia, relationships, and cultural identity. Central to its exploration is the use of language, which serves as a powerful tool to convey emotions, relationships, and the essence of Australian vernacular during the 1950s. This article explores how language is employed in the play to enrich its narrative and reflect the cultural backdrop of post-war Australia.
Context and Setting
Set in Melbourne during the 1950s, “Summer of the Seventeenth Doll” portrays the lives of cane-cutters who annually visit the city during the off-season to indulge in leisure and romance. The language used in the play captures the colloquialisms, slang, and expressive tones typical of Australian working-class culture of that era.
Language as a Reflection of Culture
1. Colloquialisms and Slang:
The play is renowned for its authentic portrayal of Australian vernacular, including colloquialisms and slang that depict the characters’ backgrounds and identities. For instance, characters like Roo and Barney use colloquialisms such as “sheila” (woman/girl), “bloke” (man), and “grouse” (excellent) to reinforce their cultural identity and social milieu.
2. Expressive Dialogue:
The dialogue in “Summer of the Seventeenth Doll” is rich in emotional depth and reflects the characters’ inner turmoil, desires, and frustrations. The use of expressive language enhances the portrayal of relationships and the complexities of human emotions. For example, Olive’s impassioned dialogue with Roo and Pearl’s stoic responses illustrate their interpersonal dynamics and the tensions within their relationships.
3. Cultural Signifiers:
Language serves as a cultural signifier in the play, highlighting the differences between urban and rural lifestyles, as well as the evolving social norms of post-war Australia. The characters’ speech patterns and expressions provide insights into their values, aspirations, and struggles within a rapidly changing society.
Themes Explored Through Language
1. Nostalgia and Memory:
The nostalgic tone of the play is reinforced through the characters’ use of language, reminiscing about past summers and the passage of time. The repetition of phrases and anecdotes underscores the cyclical nature of their lives and the longing for moments of happiness and companionship.
2. Identity and Belonging:
Language plays a crucial role in defining the characters’ sense of identity and belonging. The use of vernacular expressions and regional accents distinguishes the cane-cutters from the urban dwellers, highlighting their cultural pride and connection to their rural roots.
3. Gender and Relationships:
The dynamics between male and female characters are intricately woven into the dialogue, reflecting traditional gender roles and expectations of the time. Language is used to convey power struggles, intimacy, and the complexities of romantic relationships, particularly in scenes involving Olive, Roo, and other characters.
Impact of Language on Audience Reception
The use of authentic Australian language in “Summer of the Seventeenth Doll” contributes to its enduring popularity and critical acclaim. Audiences resonate with the characters’ voices and experiences, making the play a cultural touchstone that reflects the evolving nuances of Australian identity and societal values.
“Summer of the Seventeenth Doll” stands as a poignant exploration of Australian culture and identity, largely due to its adept use of language to depict characters’ emotions, relationships, and societal context. The play’s dialogue captures the essence of Australian vernacular during the 1950s, providing insights into the lives of working-class individuals and their aspirations for love and fulfillment. By examining the language employed in the play, we gain a deeper appreciation of its narrative depth and cultural significance, reaffirming its status as a timeless piece of Australian literature that continues to resonate with audiences today.”