Republican Gift to England

The Guardian reports that a “literary barbeque” at Hammersmith UK is to kick off a May 2014 festival, “Journey to the edge of the world” –  highlighting works from and about Australia and New Zealand.  At the launch will be writers Eleanor Catton, Hannah Kent, Courtney Collins, Kathy Lette and host Stella Duffy. “The festival aims to span the contemporary and historical exploring: migration; Indigenous history and languages; colonial links; the centenary of WWI; food and culture; and literary adaptations.” Useful republican fodder there.  Writer and republican, Thomas Keneally, added his enthusiasm,” Dear England, We’re going to send you a big present: our Australian and New Zealand writers, film and music makers.  It will all be like a series of loveable and brilliant personages emerging from a gift box and invigorating and charming you.  It’s about time, we got round to startling you, and the moment approaches”.  The next moment will be the Australian Republic. [“New Festival celebrates Aus/NZ literature and arts in London” by Anita Sethi, The Guardian, 28 August]