AustLit

'When people describe their part in events of our own life time, they often awaken in us recognition mixed with self-reproach. We recognise how greatly our attitudes have changed, but also that our images of significant people and movements are still tinged with our earlier prejudices.' (Introduction)

Epigraph: The Gospel of John mentions the 'disciple whom Jesus loved' in many places but does not identify him nor her. This disciple has received much exegetical attention over the years. Schenke has suggested Thomas as the model for the Beloved Disciple. Charlesworth goes so far to identify him as Thomas.

'The likely return of the Morrison government coincides with the second anniversary of the declaration of the Uluru Statement from the Heart. The commencement of a new term of government also heralds the start of the nuts and bolts work of designing a referendum to implement a Voice to Parliament.' (Introduction)

'Saturday 4.50pm. On Melbourne's Punt Rd, bus brakes squeal and huff. The 246 hits a standstill at the Bridge Rd corner. There's a momentary pall of silence on board — only the indicator click-clacks. The bus rests low on its suspension and seems to sigh. I slide across to the window side of my seat and brace myself. I expect noise, heat, irritation. I'd forgotten about the train lines closing for works.'  (Introduction)

'I told one of my fiercely right-wing Kiwi uncles that if Bob Hawke were elected leader of the ALP I'd follow him through cannon-fire, and surprisingly won his (grudging) respect. For he was a man's man, and so was my then hero.' (Introduction)