The World of Literature

Australia: Kate Grenville – The Lieutenant

Australia comes in the form of Kate Grenville’s post-colonial novel The Lieutenant. This is the second novel in Grenville’s trilogy on early Australia, the first of which depicts her own family history. Loosely based on William Dawes’ account of the first fleet from England to New South Wales in 1788 – the story is a work of fiction and finds narrative within suppressed historical gaps.

The story is told through the eyes of Daniel Rooke – an introverted and highly intellectual flexible thinker, who’s passionate about maths, astronomy and music. Rooke joins the fleet to establish an observatory and chart the stars. After encountering the Aboriginals, Rooke sets out to learn the native language. He establishes a trusting friendship between Tagaran, a young Aboriginal girl who resembles his younger sister, and begins his linguistic notation. Exploring natural curiosity and the dangers of ignorance, the novel charts a pivotal point in Australian history. Rooke’s outsider status allows him to view situations from different angles and addresses the darker side of English plans at the time.

Grenville illustrates the tale in perfect poetic prose allowing the reader to become absorbed in Rooke’s life and thoughts. The Lieutenant is a contemplative and moving story of human relationships.

Words by Frances

Next