Robert Gray (3) (1945–)

What a bulky mama of a book! I received this as a Christmas gift a couple of years ago, and finally slogging through it page by page. The beauty and versatility of Australian poetry from the last 200 years can often be unappreciated by the modern public (in contrast to the past; verse was such an important facet of 19th century Aussie life). Here, it is celebrated, and celebrated well.

Lehmann and Gray have not just skirted controversy; they've plunged right into it. Their choice of poems will no doubt infuriate some areas of Australian culture, and I share some of that. (The decision not to include A.D. Hope's masterful "Advice to Young Ladies" because it is, the editors mention, "too rhetorical", perhaps sums up this book.) But I'm also delighted by the anthology. It's by no means definitive - but what could be?

Everyone will have their favourites - for me, I'm delighted to see the Jindyworobaks well represented - and those who don't quite cut the mustard, but isn't that poetry?… (more)