Short works of memoir (triptych of three pieces).
Volume
78Pagination
1-1ISSN
0025-6293ISBN-13
9780522875676Language
engResearch statement
Background
‘Mallee Triptych’ consists of three thematically linked memoir fragments, exploring the use of experimental techniques in nonfiction trauma-writing. The work asks: how might depictions of trauma specifically involving animals & written in a 3rd-person perspective in fragmentary form open up new approaches to trauma-writing?
Contribution
Contributes to research in nonfiction trauma-writing, using experimental techniques. Fragments are used to contain intensity, compressing each depicted moment into a self-contained piece, emphasising impacts of trauma such as fragmentation of memory & psyche (Caruth 1995; Kristeva 1992). Surrounding white space represents inexpressibility of trauma; presence of silence. Work focuses on suffering of animals associated with the protagonist, exploring voicelessness & abject cruelty. The animal-related exploration intersects with nonfiction by A. Crawford (2021); fragmentary work with nonfiction (M. Nelson 2016; 2012) and poetry (Whittaker 2018; Harkin 2020)'
Significance
‘Mallee Triptych’ was published in premiere Australian literary journal Meanjin.Publication classification
JO3 Original Creative Works – Textual WorkIssue
1Publisher
MeanjinPlace of publication
Melbourne, Vic.Source
Meanjin Quarterly
