1 Introduction

Discussed Tim Winton's nostalgic portrayal of Australian working-class masculinity in his works, and how this nostalgia relates to industrial change and the spirit of the times. Winton's novels depict male characters' nostalgia for traditional working-class lifestyles and values when facing identity crises and mental confusion. French critic Ben Marcel and Australian critic Dixon both pointed out the theme of nostalgia in Winton's works, but Dixon characterized it as conservative and anti modern, while MacRae Deng refuted this evaluation from a religious perspective, emphasizing the modernity in Winton's works. The article further analyzes Winton's pursuit of traditional working-class masculinity, including physical strength, fearlessness, and camaraderie, and explores the revisionist ideas behind these nostalgia.

2. Physical strength or traditional craftsmanship

Explored the core position of physical labor in the construction of masculinity, especially in pre industrial societies where physical labor was not only a symbol of male survival and social status, but also a sign of gender and class differentiation. The article cites the views of Cornell and Sadler, emphasizing the importance of physical labor in the male identity of the working class. With the development of the Industrial Revolution and capitalism, the status of traditional crafts and physical labor gradually declined, and technology-based middle-class men began to replace traditional working-class men as the dominant force in social development.

3 Fearless Spirits

Explored the theme of male characters in Tim Winton's works coping with masculine anxiety through adventurous behavior. Adventures are divided into those within social norms and those that go beyond social ethical laws, reflecting the anxiety of Australian working-class men in the face of social change. Ted Bell in "Shallow" demonstrates fearlessness through shark fishing, while Rooney in "Breath" showcases masculinity through illegal adventure activities. These behaviors reveal the Australian working class's strong desire to transcend tradition and conquer nature, while also exposing regional narrowness and arrogance. Winton portrays skepticism towards traditional masculinity through Cliff's character, implying that it is built upon killing and ecological destruction. The growth trajectories of Rooney and Pike reveal the pros and cons of traditional masculinity. Rooney's adventurous activities ultimately led to his death, while Pike found a masculine identity different from adventurous activities in adulthood. Winton holds a critical attitude towards traditional working-class masculinity, believing that it may lead to 'toxic masculinity'.

4 Companion Friendship

Explored the importance of camaraderie in Australian culture and Tim Winton's works. Companionship is the core of same-sex communication among Australian jungle men, embodying the spirit of equality, loyalty, and dedication, and playing an important role in constructing the masculine identity of the Australian working class. Winton contrasts the selfishness, materialism, violence, and indifference of the small town with the loyalty, self-sufficiency, equality, and fairness of the traditional working class, showcasing the transformation of camaraderie. The protagonist's escape journey is also a process of finding alternative masculine qualities, through a three-stage identity construction, from being tired of small town life to embarking on a journey deep into the inland, jungle or wilderness, establishing friendships with isolated elderly people, and ultimately parting ways to continue the physical and mental journey. In "The Shepherd's Cabin," Jacky's escape story reflects the decline of traditional working-class camaraderie and the alienation of individuals in modern society. After the fragile friendship between Jacky and Feitan broke down, Jacky's act of rescue marked the beginning of his reconstruction of his masculine identity, showcasing the camaraderie of jungle men who lend a helping hand and act bravely. Jacky's geographical journey echoes the construction of a masculine identity, facing an uncertain future and showcasing the traditional masculine qualities of a bushman, distinct from the "toxic masculinity" of his father.

5 Conclusion

Explored the pursuit of traditional working-class masculinity by male characters in Winton's works, including qualities such as physical strength, fearlessness, and camaraderie. This pursuit reflects the lack and anxiety of contemporary working-class masculinity. The masculine temperament depicted by Winton is a historical process of change, rather than a fixed type. Their nostalgia for tradition and wilderness journeys are both a realistic escape and a tribute. Winton distinguished between bravery and recklessness, emphasizing that the younger generation should approach tradition dialectically. Traditional masculinity is an alternative choice for building identity in male growth, rather than a perfect paradigm.