Deadly Unna Theme Essay

The novel Deadly Unna? explores many themes; discuss which theme you feel is most strongly focussed upon. Use examples from the novel to support your argument.

Deadly Unna, a novel written by Phillip Gwynne, delves deep into the society of an Australian town in the 1970s when racial prejudice of the Aboriginals was prevalent. Writing in the perspective of Gary ‘Blacky’ Black who is white, Gwynne makes use of many themes in the novel, such as dysfunctional families, friendship, racism and prejudice. However, the most prominent theme that the book focuses on is racism. The author does an excellent job in developing characters and symbols to contrast the relation between the Nungas, the Aboriginal population and the Goonyas, the white population, showing racism.

Initial major development of racism in the town rises with the treatment of the Aboriginals in Blacky’s community. This is also the point when Blacky becomes aware of the racism ingrained in his community. After the grand finals, there is an announcement of the Best on Ground award – Blacky believes that Dumby Red, a friend of him who is Aboriginal, is worthy of the

Before Blacky notices the racism in his community, he simply laughs at racist jokes and sees nothing wrong in the comment, “Don’t shake hands with no boongs”. This is changed shortly after his realisation, when he comes to a state he cannot laugh at racist jokes. After Dumby’s death, Pickles and Darcy believe that he deserved to die – this represents how unimportant Aboriginals are to the whites. Signs such as “Boongs piss off” are seen regularly, also promoting racism. Blacky, to prevent racism in the community, decides to remove the sign. His father sees this as meaningless, asking Blacky, “Are you out of your fucking mind?” Despite this, Blacky removes the graffiti by painting over it, and becomes much more aware that everyone around him is