The poem is structured as a postcard from the speaker's father, who is living in Poland. The postcard is addressed to the speaker, who is presumably living in Australia.
Here's a breakdown of the key elements:
* Memory and Family History: The postcard is a tangible link to the speaker's past and his father's homeland. The "forgotten address" and the "street" that is "now just dust" symbolize the loss and passage of time. The details of the postcard, like the mention of "apple trees" and "the old house," evoke memories and highlight the cultural disconnect between the speaker and his father's world.
* Displacement and Identity: The poem deals with the experience of displacement and the challenges of finding a sense of belonging in a new land. The speaker is struggling to reconcile his Australian identity with his Polish heritage. The postcard serves as a reminder of his roots and the cultural gap between him and his father.
* Language and Communication: The poem explores the difficulties of communication across cultural and generational divides. The use of "broken English" and the "few words" on the postcard reflect the limitations of language and the inability to fully express complex feelings.
* The "Other" and Belonging: The poem also touches upon the theme of "otherness" and the challenges faced by immigrants in a new country. The speaker's experience is marked by a sense of difference and a longing for a place where he truly belongs.
Overall, "Postcard" is a poignant and insightful poem about the complexities of family, memory, and identity. It highlights the challenges of navigating cultural differences and finding a sense of belonging in a world that is often fragmented and unfamiliar.