Art Imitates Life

Macedon Ranges Guardian     13 April 2012

Sally Wilmott

Art Imitates Life

Local author John Condliffe first novel, Kiss of the King Brown, begins his trilogy which explores our relationships with each other and our relationships with the world, very much influenced by his own story.

This story is set in the 1950s and captures a unique period in of Australian life. It tells the story of a young outsider in the riverine town of Koonarook-Caladonia who is nearly killed in a sudden storm and mysteriously marked by lightning (Dingarra).

In his own life, Condliffe has worked a diverse variety of jobs, and along the wayhe has met a number of fascinating people who now inspire characters in his book.

One of the novels main characters-an aboriginal elder Joseph Wirinum-was inspired by the stockmen Condliffe met when he was a lay missionary at an Aboriginal hostel in the Kimberley. He recalls the way they walked, heads held high and shiny buckles on their belts; and everything they say goes.

“The strong stockmen just rode into the story and became central to it,” Condliffe said.

The relationship between protagonist Sean Buttenberg and his war-affected father was inspired by Condliffe’s own, yet brief relationship with his father.

There in the back of my mind was that idea.  About that boy on the Murray and his dad. My memories of him were scant,” he says.

Condliffe began his journey in 2004, but he wants to discover more.

He says writing the book was, “Like a river and every now and then the river would drop a nugget. If I was smart I would pick up the nugget.”

Condliffe’s book will be launched by local legend Leo Ramsdale OAM at Aesops Attic, High Street, Kyneton, tomorrow- Saturday April 14-at 2pm. Condliffe will be available for book signings. Afternoon tea provided.

Kiss of the King Brown is available from Aesop’s Attic for $19.95.