State of the (Writing) Nation: Maria Tumarkin

The State of the (Writing) Nation is an annual address from a prominent Australian writer. It’s a chance to reflect on what’s happening, and where we’re heading, in Australian literature and publishing. 

This year, Maria Tumarkin will give the address. Tumarkin is the author of four books, including the multi-award-winning creative non-fiction work, Axiomatic, and is a recipient of the prestigious 2020 Windham Campbell Prize. 

In her address, Tumarkin will propose ditching two widely used arguments for literature as a public good deserving of support: literature’s necessary for the health of the nation (1); and literature heightens empathy (2a) and makes us better people (2b). Why ditch these arguments? Because, Tumarkin will argue, they are dead ends. She will outline less anodyne, more urgent ways of speaking up for writers and readers in 2020. 

Jean Bachoura, who was mentored by Tumarkin through the 2018 Next Chapter scheme, will also deliver a short reading. Writers Victoria patron Christos Tsiolkas will host the event.

Presented in partnership with Writers Victoria, with all proceeds from this event supporting the Disadvantaged Writers Fund.

Our bookseller for this event will be Sun Bookshop.

Click for PDF transcripts of Jean Bachoura’s segment and Maria Tumarkin’s speech.