Squeaker’s Mate” by Barbara Baynton – Summary and Analysis

“Squeaker’s Mate” by Barbara Baynton – Summary and Analysis

Summary:

“Squeaker’s Mate” is one of Barbara Baynton’s most powerful short stories, first published in Bush Studies (1902). It tells the tragic story of a strong, capable bush woman known as Squeaker’s Mate. She does most of the hard work on their remote farm—fencing, clearing land, and managing the household—while her husband, known as “Squeaker,” is lazy, weak, and dependent on her.

One day, while helping her husband move a heavy log, Squeaker’s Mate is badly injured—her back is broken, leaving her paralyzed. From that moment, her life becomes one of suffering and neglect. Squeaker, showing no compassion, treats her like a burden. He brings another woman, his new “mate,” to live with them, and together they mistreat the injured woman, who is left helpless in her bed.

Despite her physical paralysis, Squeaker’s Mate remains mentally strong and defiant, refusing to show weakness. Her inner strength contrasts sharply with Squeaker’s cowardice and selfishness. Eventually, she dies, abandoned and alone, a tragic victim of cruelty and injustice.