Nation, Memory, Myth: Gallipoli and the Australian Imaginary (Steve Vizard, MUP)

In Nation, Memory, Myth: Gallipoli and the Australian Imagery, Steve Vizard delves into the creation of the Gallipoli myth, exploring the nature of myth itself, its role in nation building and its questionable shortcomings in uniting a diverse Australia. The book is structured in two halves, reflecting how some readers may also be divided on the subject – the Gallipoli myth remains strong but controversial. In the first half, Vizard examines the myth’s origins, particularly the legend of the larrikin – the mascot of conservative and traditional Australia – and unpacks Joseph Campbell’s theories on storytelling with entertaining detail. The second half focuses on the myth’s limitations, highlighting its exclusion of minorities and alternative narratives of Australia. Indigenous Australians, the genocide they endured, the voices of women, and other crucial perspectives are conspicuously absent from the myth’s framework. While the book’s language can feel overly lofty at times, potentially limiting its accessibility, it rewards readers with its brave reimagining of what Australia’s national myths could – or should – be. Vizard draws on extensive research and his background as the writer of The Last Man Standing, a theatrical piece performed by the Melbourne Theatre Company for Gallipoli’s centenary in 2015. Readers interested in Australian history, mythology, or the interplay between the two will find Nation, Memory, Myth compelling; its thorough research and brave perspectives make it a valuable contribution to the ongoing conversation about Australian identity.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Becca Whitehead is a features and content writer based in Naarm-Melbourne. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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