Conversations from Byron
Nature and Inspiration
Three novelists Emily Brugman, Ashley Hay and Christos Tsiolkas discuss their work and the synchronous exchange that occurs between writing and the natural world. Together they examine the fine line between inspiration and exaggeration, the role of intuition, the importance of space and silence and the care that must be taken when describing sensory experiences. Coupled with evocative readings from each of their novels, this conversation is a delightful journey into the inner workings of three very different, yet equally outstanding writers.
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About the authors
Emily Brugman
Emily Brugman is the author of The Islands, a novel inspired by her Finnish family’s experiences of living and working on the Abrolhos Islands, WA, in the mid-20th century.
Ashley Hay
Ashley Hay is a novelist, essayist and editor at Griffith Review. A revised edition of her 2002 book, Gum: The Story of Eucalypts and Their Champions, was published in 2021.
Christos Tsiolkas
Christos Tsiolkas is the award-winning author of five novels, including Head On and The Slap. He is also a playwright, essayist and screen writer. 7 ½ is his latest book.
Jill Eddington
Jill Eddington has enjoyed a long career in the literary sector including in festivals, publishing and at the Australia Council for the Arts.
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