Don Watson is renowned for his incisive observations and sharp writing on Australian society and politics. His work often delves into the intricacies of language, power, and history, examining how words are used to shape public opinion and political narratives. Watson's style is characterized by wit, intelligence, and a deep understanding of human nature. His output serves as a pointed reflection on Australian identity and global challenges, with a touch of satirical insight. Through his analyses, he challenges readers to think critically about the language they encounter.
Exploring the complex relationship between Australia and America, the book delves into the Australian imagination's subservience to American culture. Don Watson questions the reasons behind this dominance, pondering whether Australia can maintain an independent identity or if it is destined to become an extension of American ideals. Through a thought-provoking analysis, he critiques the paradoxes within Australian society, reflecting on its cultural anxieties and aspirations in the shadow of its powerful ally. The essay presents a nuanced meditation on national identity and cultural influence.
From the bestselling author of The Bush, the story of a fifty-year
relationship between a Vietnam veteran and an isolated clan in north-east
Arnhem Land - a unique, astonishing window into Australia's deep past and
precarious present, by a master storyteller.
When was the last time you heard a politician use words that rang with truth and meaning? Do your eyes glaze over when you read a letter from your bank or insurance company? Does your mind shut down when your employer starts talking about 'making a commitment going forwards' or speaks of 'enhancing the bottom line'? Every day we are confronted with a debased, depleted sludge: in the media, among corporations, in the public services and cultural institutions, at work, and out of the mouths of our leaders. There is a new public language that has been forced on us that makes no sense to outsiders and confounds even those who use it. It is a dead language, devoid of lyricism, emotion, complexity or nuance. Meanwhile, in step with managerial thinking, opinion polls and an impossibly demanding media, our political leaders employ this new language of cliches, jargon, platitudes and weasel words to hide or twist the truth. Don Watson can take it no longer. In Death Sentence, he takes a blowtorch to the words - and their users - that sterilise the language and kill imagination and clarity. Scathing, funny and brilliant, Death Sentence is a small book that is as timely as it is profound.
