Join Dr Jeff Brownrigg for an engaging illustrated presentation exploring the final poetic works of Clive James—renowned Australian critic, journalist, broadcaster, and lyricist. The session delves into three poignant verse collections: Nefertiti in the Flak Tower (2012), Sentenced to Life (2015), and Injury Time (2017), alongside his posthumous anthology The Fire of Joy (2020), which celebrates the joy of memorising and reciting poetry.
Clive James rose to international fame as a television presenter and critic, particularly in Europe and the USA. His autobiographical prose remains widely admired, while his critical writing, though influential, had a shorter cultural lifespan. As a poet, James was known for his accessibility and wit, drawing on his journey from suburban Kogarah to life in England.
In his final years, James reflected deeply on mortality, memory, and friendship. Injury Time, originally titled The Rest is Silence, includes the moving poem Stroking Her Feet to Opus 131, a meditation on Beethoven that transcends music. His signature satirical tone persisted, even as he mourned the loss of close friends like fellow poet Peter Porter.
Presented by NFSA OWLS in partnership with U3A, this event invites attendees to enjoy a light lunch or morning tea at Dom's, the on-site deli, set in a beautiful Art Deco courtyard.
Accessibility
- Caters for people who use a wheelchair.
- Caters for people who are deaf or have hearing loss.
- Caters for people with sufficient mobility to climb a few steps but who would benefit from fixtures to aid balance. (This includes people using walking frames and mobility aids)
- An access and inclusion statement is available (make this available on your website).
When
14 Nov
10am–12pm
Price
