Belonging Essay Rainbows End & Redfern Now

English Essay Rainbows End and Stand Up

Belonging or not belonging are abstract concepts defined by the individual experiencing them. Conflicts between perceptions of belonging or not belonging in places, families, relationships and communities can create tension for the individual on their journey. In Australia society the Indigenous population has been traditionally disempowered and sidelined and many were removed from their places of origin, severing their sense of original belonging to place, family and community. 'Rainbows End' by Jane Harris and 'Stand Up' by Rachel Perkins from the TV series 'Redfern Now' discuss the journey of an individual and how their sense of belonging influences that journey.

The separation of many Aboriginals from their places of birth and heritage has forced them to create a sense of belonging to whichever place they can feel connected to. The Dear family feel they belong in their humpy. Even though the living conditions are squalid and it often floods they feel a connection to the land. This is particularly evidenced when Errol tries to convince Dolly to move away with him. She says “Don’t matter if the floors are dirt, don’t matter one bit… This is my place. I’m staying right here with my mum and my nan”   ('Rainbow’s End’ pg 171) This shows Dolly’s sense of connection to place in her home and her repetitive use of “don't”, spoken   in non-standard English further emphasises her alienation from mainstream Australian society. Her repetition of key phrases like “A better life?”, “A real home?” and “Deserve better?” also demonstrate her sense of belonging to the Flats. This sense of belonging creates tension between her idea of home and Errol’s because she knows she doesn’t belong in white society.

Similarly, Joel’s connection to his home in Redfern creates tension between his culture and white culture. The stark differences between his home and the Clifton Grammar campus create a huge distance between the schools...



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