Charmian Clift was an Australian writer and essayist during the mid 20th century. She was the second wife and literary collaborator of George Johnston.
Reading this book is like time travelling back a wee bit to have wonderful random, insightful conversations with an aunt or a grandma. Her energy for life seeps into every story. Delightful.
A great read, written as short story articles for The Sydney Morning Herald in the 60s. This style of writing always amazes me! The subject matter is eclectic and remarkably interesting. How did Charmian Clift come up with the idea to write about these trivial yet not-trivial subjects - reflections on a dripping tap, pilgrimage to a possibility and requiem for a spinster to name but a few. Her writing is punchy, humorous and very observant, she has a sharp eye for the small details. Chairman has an excellent turn of phrase and if you're looking for a book you can pick up and put down during the holidays, this is it. However, don't make the mistake of thinking it's a light bit of fluff....she had me thinking on many levels.
These essays were well written but despite them being written from personal experience or observation, there seemed to be a gap between what was experienced and what was written---an emotional detachment.