Dare Me! The Life and Work of Gerald Glaskin by John Burbidge

Book Description

Secondhand. Good condition. Wear to book corners and edges. Previous owner has stamped inside page.

Gerald Glaskin (1923-2000) pushed the boundaries of acceptability in his writing and how he wrote it. His 20 significant publications - novels, short stories, travelogues, memoirs, plays, and more, tackled such taboo subjects as homosexuality, incest, and parapsychology.

In the aftermath of World War II, Glaskin challenged white Australians to re-examine their attitudes toward Asians and Aboriginal people; and his 1965 novel, No End to the Way, initially banned, was groundbreaking in its frank portrayal of a homosexual relationship.

Outside Australia, Glaskin's books were translated into multiple languages and garnered praise from critics and readers alike. He was hailed as 'the ace of Australian storytellers.' Yet, he was and remains a virtual nonentity in his home country.

Why did Australia turn its back on Glaskin? Was it due to his delight in provoking people? Was it because of his audacious, belligerent, and, at times, overbearing manner? Was he a victim of his country's 'tall poppy syndrome,' or of a provincial publishing industry?

This insightful biography probes the life and work of one of Australia's most neglected writers and, in so doing, gives Gerald Glaskin his proper due. (back cover)