Yolngu Boy: the balance of representations and identity.

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             The strong friendship between Lorrpu, Milika and Botj is reflective of the greater cultural group they are a part of, and which therefore helps connect them to their identities. The boys" efforts to gain the respect of the elders and be entrusted with the knowledge of Aboriginal law support their desires to fulfil Yolngu cultural practise. The testing of Botj's strength of character throughout the film, and concurrently his effect on Lorrpu and Milika, displays the social pressure on them to follow their own paths. The film deals with the subjectivity involved in finding the path of passage for each individual to travel, rather than commanding one which is fixed for all characters. The self-destructive path taken by Botj forces the other two friends to confront their connection to their Yolngu heritage and the bonds of the past they have all shared. Matjala, the Aboriginal Corrections Officer, and Botj's Uncle says to them at tribal council, "What does it take to teach you to be men?". They are encouraged to follow their hearts and not their eyes; to do what is right. Lorrpu connects with this ideal after having healed Botj, as he assures Milika "This is the right way". .
             Lorrpu is portrayed as the traditionalist within the group of friends. His reflections which exemplify this include statements such as, "[We have] one skin, one dream", and "The land, the stories, the songs, the dances. These are our heritage". Focalisation shifts from Lorrpu to that of the external narrator rapidly throughout the text, permitting the viewer to learn of any foreign customs. We accept Lorrpu's bond with the Yolngu culture as strong, persistent, and connected to his identity throughout the narration. This is not however, without question. We commend him for his concern and the nurturing qualities he displays toward Botj (getting him out of the fight at the football ground, and protecting his pride in finding a tactful way of letting him know about his meeting with Dawu), however Lorrpu still shows signs of an adolescent caught between the responsibilities of growing up and the abandonment of youth.