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I agree that the primary concern for Mateer seems to be the way in which a
critical culture is evolving surrounding Aust poetry. In the same issue of
ABR, Cassandra Pybus refers to a 'cosiness' evident in much of Australian
fiction reviewing. If this is an accurate descriptor, is it equally
applicable to poetry? And does this 'cosiness' exacerbate a
reluctance/postponement which Mateer--with reason--finds somewhat
dismaying. Interesting to note, though, that in concluding Mateer himself
did not state his own opinion on the greatness or otherwise of the two
poets in question. I'm left wondering why . . .
Cheers
Louise.


>Mateer's article is not so much concerned with whether we 'define' Hope and
>Wright as 'great' or not, but rather that when given the opportunity to
>engage/create a critical culture within Australian poetry - there is a
>'postponement of judgment', the typical oz reticence, reluctance, hesitation
>etc.
>
>With the passing of these two poets, I thought that this hesitation would
>decrease, as is the usual way of  'Greatness'.
>
>cheers
>deb