Susan Wyndham & Brigitta Olubas – Shirley Hazzard and Elizabeth Harrower: The Letters

The Transit of Venus follows the lives of Caroline and Grace Bell, two orphaned Australian sisters who move to post-war England. The novel spans thirty years, from the 1950s to the 1980s, and explores themes of love, morality, and personal integrity. Caroline is pursued by a young astronomer, Ted Tice, while she prefers the unscrupulous playwright Paul Ivory. Meanwhile, Grace settles into a conventional marriage with Christian Thrale. The novel is praised for its exquisite prose and its intricate plotting, which combines elements of Greek tragedy, family saga, and desperate love story. It is considered one of the great English-language novels of the twentieth century.

Published in 1667, 'Paradise Lost' is an epic poem in blank verse that follows the biblical story of the Fall of Man. The poem begins in medias res, detailing the descent of Satan and his followers into Hell after their rebellion against God. It explores two main narrative arcs: one focusing on Satan's actions and the other on Adam and Eve's story in the Garden of Eden. The poem delves into themes such as free will, obedience, revenge, and pride, and it portrays the complex characters of Satan, Adam, and Eve. Milton's work is known for its rich language, classical structure, and profound theological and philosophical insights.

Elizabeth Harrower's "Down in the City" is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of human relationships and societal expectations. Set in Sydney, the story unfolds with a fairy tale-like beginning, but soon takes a darker turn, exploring themes of manipulation and control. Harrower's evocative prose brings the city to life, contrasting its vibrant energy with the oppressive atmosphere of the characters' lives. The novel's exploration of female agency and resilience in the face of adversity makes it a compelling read. The narrative's unexpected twists and turns keep readers engaged until the very end.

In "The Long Prospect," Elizabeth Harrower showcases her talent for creating atmospheric narratives and exploring complex themes. The novel, set in Newcastle, delves into the lives of its characters, revealing their struggles and triumphs. Harrower's writing style is both evocative and insightful, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level. The story's exploration of human relationships and the complexities of life in a specific setting makes it a compelling read. The novel's themes of resilience and the search for meaning resonate with readers long after they finish the book.

Elizabeth Harrower's "The Watchtower" masterfully portrays the insidious nature of coercive control within a seemingly idyllic setting. The novel follows two sisters navigating the complexities of their lives after their father's death, leading to a disturbing exploration of power dynamics and manipulation. Harrower's evocative prose paints a vivid picture of Sydney, contrasting the beauty of the harbor with the oppressive atmosphere within the sisters' home. The narrative unfolds in three distinct parts, mirroring the protagonist's journey from naivete to liberation. The book's exploration of psychological manipulation and the strength required to escape such situations resonates deeply with readers.