This 1961 sculpture, by South Australia born sculptor Ian McKay, is a tribute to Andrew Barton (Banjo) Paterson (1864 – 1941), famous Australia bush poet, journalist and author who was particularly famous for this ballads and poems which, I feel, presented a rather romantic view of rural and outback Australian life. Continue reading “The Man from Snowy River Statue”
‘A Conversation With Oscar Wilde’
This rather unorthodox memorial and tribute to a rather unorthodox man was unveiled on 30 November 1998 by Stephen Fry, who played Oscar Wilde in the 1997 film “Wilde”.
Entitled ‘A Conversation with Oscar Wilde’ the memorial, in the form of a green granite sarcophagus and designed as a seat, depicts Oscar Wilde, one of the most brilliant and flamboyant literary figures in late Victoria London, emerging from his afterlife, cigarette (when it has not been stolen) in hand, ready to share his renowned wit and views on anything and everything with whoever cares to sit down and have a chat. Continue reading “‘A Conversation With Oscar Wilde’”
Per Sivle Memorial
This engraved stone in Old Flåm, about 100 metres past the church (heading out of the village up the valley), is a one of a number of memorials in Norway to Per Sivle a famous Norwegian writer, poet, journalist and a passionate nationalist. Continue reading “Per Sivle Memorial”
Robert Burns – For Auld Lang Syne, My Dear
“As the falling drapery disclosed the marble representation of the poet enthusiastic cheers were given, and the band poured forth the strains of ‘Auld Lang Syne.‘“ (South Australian Register – 7 May 1884). Continue reading “Robert Burns – For Auld Lang Syne, My Dear”
An Australian Literary Great
To be honest, Australia cannot boast many literary greats and the average Aussie is more at home on the beach, at the footie, or having a beer at a barby than he or she is pouring over the classics or attending the Opera.
This is not to say that Australia lacks culture or class. Continue reading “An Australian Literary Great”
The Rambling Wombat 