Acclaimed author and broadcaster Stan Grant reflects on the fragility of words and why contemplation and philosophy matter in an era of increasing division.
Drawing wisdom from an array of thinkers and artists, including Plato, Simone Weil, Cormac McCarthy, Thomas Aquinas and even Radiohead, Stan Grant’s expansive and philosophical new book When Words Fail Us invites readers to reconsider the meaning and necessity of silence in an age of noise, speed and relentless distraction.
Written after stepping away from public life, the book explores how words can fail to meet the moment in the context of Australia’s history, identity and political division. Grant offers a rare insight into how the power of listening can lead to connection, compassion and love.
Don’t miss this special edition of The Fifth Estate hosted by Sally Warhaft.
Presented in partnership with RMIT University
Event and Ticketing Details
Dates & Times
Thursday 16 July
7.00 - 8.15pm
Tickets
$49.50
Full
$39.50
Concession
$39.50
Under 30
Groups 6+ and Members get standard 10% discount across all reserves.
For more information on Memberships, click here.
Location
Accessibility
Accessible toilets available
Assistive Listening
Auslan interpreting available by-request
Companion tickets available
Registered Assistance Animals welcome
Wheelchair accessible
For information regarding accessibility at The Capitol, click here.
Please notify us of all access requirements when booking online so we can assist you with your visit. If you require further information, please contact ticketing@wheelercentre.com.
Additional Notes
Stan Grant will be signing books after the event.
The bookseller for this event is Hill of Content Bookshop.
Melbourne was designated the world’s second UNESCO City of Literature in 2008. As part of this global network, we strive to support the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, a set of 17 goals designed to promote fairness, health and environmental sustainability worldwide. 
This event addresses Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.
Featuring
Stan Grant
Stan Grant is a proud Wiradjuri man, and the Vice Chancellor’s Chair of Australian-Indigenous Belonging at Charles Sturt University. He was formerly ABC’s Global Affairs and Indigenous Affairs Analyst. He is the ...
Sally Warhaft
Sally Warhaft is a Melbourne broadcaster, anthropologist and writer. She is the host of The Fifth Estate, the Wheeler Centre’s live series focusing on journalism, politics, media, and international relations, and The Leap ...