Brisbane to Indiana? Why Not?

 I have a fairly good idea of what is not being read here. I know I repeat this story fairly often: I wanted to write when I was younger (40 + years ago) and I gave up because I did not think my stories had any importance, that writing would not be profitable. I believe now that this thinking terminated in my depression that led to my attempts at self-destruction. Sorry, if that sounds melodramatic. I know that I feel better now writing – even if one of my dear friends said lately my life was in the toilet. There are stories here. Anyone trying to tell Indiana stories has my support. Indiana writers, in general, have my support. I may have waited too long, let my talent wither, and I do not want to see that happen. That is why I am writing this post. It is why I have a number of articles on Indiana writers you can find to your right under the subject archive within the topics “On Writing Indiana" and "Indiana Writers.”

I also repeat myself when I say we in the Midwest can learn from writers hailing from marginal areas. With me, it has been principally Eastern European, Japanese, and South American writers. (All of which will probably be scratching their heads over my describing them as from marginal areas before saying how American is such a view). 

Peter Carey is the only Australian writer I have read (and I really suggest if you have not read him, then do so ASAP), but I think Australia is not a place where Americans look at for literature. I recommend you read The Brisbane Times' How these five Brisbane writers have changed the literary landscape. There you will find sketches about these writers.

Where are the Indiana writers who will change Indiana's literary landscape? I am too old for the job - except to play cheerleader.

sch 8/4