Through the text migrant hostel we explore the consequences and concerns that not understanding ones self-culture can lead to a fragmented identity. Belonging is an instinctive part of the human condition, however Skrzynecki empathises throughout this poem that a lack of understanding of it can prelude ones sense of belonging and ultimately cause a feeling of disconnection, which therefore causes an impeded sense of frustration and Isolation. Furthermore through this poem Skrzynecki explores the idea behind the lack of acceptance that these migrants continue to have, hence he is unable to nourish belonging expressively at all.
Through Skrynecki’s poem migrant hostel, the imagery of the birds and passage creates a sense of transience and movement. This simile therefore elucidates Skrzynecki’s inability to create lasting connections to those “sudden departures”. Skrzynecki’s disconnection further impedes his identity by causing him to question the validity of his acceptance and establishes his lack of self-efficiency. This therefore reinforces the idea that despite Skrynecki’s involvement with migrants living in an overly-crowded lodge, he is unable understand their cultural identity or social issues which as of a result prevents belonging from taking place.
Another aspect of this poem written by Skrynecki is its structure of routine. Rhythm and phrasing indicates his encouraging regular routine that implies a more force ward connection to the hostel, however may not always be wanted. “We lived like birds of passage – Always sensing a change” reveals an atmospheric mood of dullness and despair of wanting change to occur however tediousness and uncertainty is all that continues to distinguish Skrynecki’s experiences in the hostel. This implies no deep or thorough connection to the Hostel as instead of wanting to leave it, illustrates an act of no self-belonging. The poem “Migrant hostel” is also used to highlight Skrzynecki’s disconnection and separation from the Australian society, thus creating a lack of belonging. The metaphor ”Like a finger pointed in reprimand or shame” and symbolism from the word “barrier” portray Australians selfishness and intent desires to belong with people from the migrant hostel. It’s symbolising the lack of connections these migrants have with the land due to Skrynecki’s confusion of cultural identity. Understanding where they want to belong to illustrates and assist them to nourish acceptance and unity.