is related to other Foster writings of the 1990s -- the novel

and the essays, notably “My Blue Heaven”, “Trees of Life”, and “A Walk in the Southern Blue Mountains”. It is informed by thinking on such subjects as economic rationalism, overpopulation, rural unemployment, “the tragic character of the male ego”, declining spirituality, the relationship between Australians and the land, reconciliation between black and white Australians, changing climates (both literal and cultural), and the redeeming power of wilderness and beauty. In many respects, the novel is driven by issues rather than plot.

The novel’s first chapter could work as an independent story. In terms bordering on the farcical it details a victory for the

407 words

Citation: Shaw, Narelle. "In the New Country". The Literary Encyclopedia. First published 27 July 2004 [https://www.litencyc.com/php/sworks.php?rec=true&UID=11709, accessed 26 November 2024.]