Discussion about this post

User's avatar
Mabel Rytmeister's avatar

Urgh Bri this is why I subscribe to News&Reviews!!! I've only read some of Garner's short stories (From "Everywhere I Look") but this was fabulous. Feminist/ethical/philosophical debate!!! Discussions and insights into Australia's literary scene from two brilliant Australian writers!!! Exploration of creative process and the boundaries of fiction/nonfiction!!! Productivity/life balance content!!! Thanks so much!

Expand full comment
Myf's avatar

Garner has always walked the fine line between fiction and non-fiction. I don’t try and work out what what is real and what isn’t because the ‘truth’ will always be through her experiences and therefore there will always be elements of fiction.

When I read her diaries I try and put all the noise and criticism aside and just be taken along for the ride of her amazing observation. I’m surprised with how affronted I feel with Astrid’s criticism of the diaries even though I rationally see the points you are making. My initial reaction is, do we have to critique everything, can’t some things just be for pure enjoyment? But I don’t know where you would draw the line. Astrid, would it make you feel better if it wasn’t marketed as non-fiction?

The part about being scared to say you don’t like a popular author has made me realise it feels so much more personal to criticise an authors work compared to just not liking a musicians song or album. I wonder if that’s because of the effort that we know goes into writing something? I never give less than 3 stars on Goodreads (your favourite Bri) even if they are an international best seller.

I completely agree that we would all be up in arms if it wasn’t a straight white male who was portrayed in the villain but holy moly isn’t it just juicy sweet revenge for how awfully he treated her. I love the diary entry where he asks her not to write about him in her diary. ooooops!

Thanks for sparking such an interesting discussion!

Expand full comment
37 more comments...

No posts