This morning’s edition of the Australian carries a solid review
of the book by Peter
Pierce in which he quotes my
deep thoughts on it and describes me as “the anonymous reviewer on the
literary website Quote Unquote”. This proves yet again that you can’t always
believe what you read in the papers: I am not anonymous and this is not a
website. Still, nice to be noticed. Don’t we love it when, as Charles Brasch
put it, “distance looks our way”. Even if it’s only Australia.
The review outlines the criticism the book has
received here for the exclusions of Frame, O’Sullivan, Duff and the rest, but
is generally positive. Pierce is professor of Australian literature at James
Cook University, Townsville and knows New Zealand literature, quoting well from
the selections to bring out themes of interest to Australian readers. He quite
rightly praises the design and production values, and concludes hopefully:
Attentive readers of this book will also discover the personal, political and literary affiliations among its writers. They will happen on authors of originality, rough and polished distinction, whose presence should ensure that for many reading households in Australia, this Anthology of New Zealand Literature is a vital and much used possession.
Monitor: Bill Manhire
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