More MWF.

Attended two author 'conversations' at the Melbourne Writers Festival yesterday. The first was with renowned Aussie novelist/poet David Malouf (shown above, on right) at a glass and steel masterpiece called BMW Edge in Federation Square. Malouf's been writing for over 40 years; many of his tossed-off comments had me scrambling for a notepad, including this one: "You're free to be young when you're old."

Less quotable but equally intriguing was first-time Canadian novelist and poet Gil Adamson. She spoke at one of the two ultra-modern cinemas that comprise the Australian Centre for the Moving Image at Fed Square. Reservedly introspective but quick to smile (despite, or because of, jetlag), she read from her debut The Outlander and described its 10-year journey from poem to award-winning novel. Impressed me enough to buy a copy and have it signed.

Some photos ...Federation Square, from Russell Street.
The crusty but ornate Forum Theatre, built in 1929, across Flinders Street from Fed Square.
Melbourne architecture is a study of contrasts.
Killin' time jottin' thoughts between events at the European Bier Cafe.