Waanyi writer Alexis Wright has made history by winning the prestigious 2024 Miles Franklin Literary Award for her novel Praiseworthy. This 730-page epic delves into themes of colonisation, Aboriginal sovereignty, and climate change, showcasing Wright’s exceptional storytelling and imagination.
This is not Wright’s first time winning the Miles Franklin Award, as she previously took home the prize in 2007 for her novel Carpentaria. With this win, she joins the ranks of dual Miles Franklin winners, a prestigious group that includes renowned authors like Michelle de Kretser, Kim Scott, Thomas Keneally, and Patrick White.
Wright’s novel Praiseworthy has been described as a monumental achievement by the 2024 judges, led by chair Richard Neville, Mitchell Librarian of the State Library of NSW. They praised Wright’s literary technique, which combines different languages, ancient and modern, to create a story that is both emotionally powerful and intellectually stimulating. The novel’s ambition, astringency, and audacity have been commended for pushing the boundaries of Australian literature and expanding the possibilities of fiction.
In a statement ahead of the award ceremony, Wright expressed her amazement and humility at winning the Miles Franklin Award for the second time. She emphasized her intention to make Praiseworthy a significant work that captures the spirit of our times and addresses the complexities of the world we live in.
Wright’s win marks a significant milestone, as she is the eighth woman in a row to win the $60,000 award and the 20th woman to win it since its inception in 1957. This achievement highlights the growing recognition of female voices in Australian literature and the importance of diverse perspectives in storytelling.
The novel Praiseworthy is a reflection of Wright’s deep understanding of the Australian landscape and its people. Set in a fictional Aboriginal community called Praiseworthy, the story follows the lives of its inhabitants as they grapple with issues like climate change, government neglect, and the legacy of colonisation. Wright’s vivid descriptions and poignant storytelling bring to life the struggles and resilience of the characters, making the novel a compelling and thought-provoking read.
One of the central themes of Praiseworthy is the suffocating red-ochre haze that envelops the community, symbolizing the challenges and obstacles faced by Indigenous communities in Australia. Wright uses this imagery to highlight the invisible struggles and injustices that often go unnoticed by the wider society, drawing attention to the urgent need for change and recognition of Aboriginal sovereignty.
Through the character of Cause Man Steel, a dreamer who embarks on a quest to save his people from the impending climate crisis, Wright addresses the impact of government policies like the Northern Territory Intervention on Indigenous communities. Cause Man’s journey serves as an allegory for the hopelessness and despair experienced by many Aboriginal people living under oppressive systems that fail to support their dreams and aspirations.
Wright’s unique approach to storytelling, drawing inspiration from international literature and blending it with local vernacular and landscape, sets Praiseworthy apart as a groundbreaking work of fiction. By writing outside the confines of traditional literary norms, Wright challenges readers to think critically about the world around them and consider new perspectives on Australian life and culture.
As a two-time winner of the Miles Franklin Award and a recipient of other prestigious literary prizes, Alexis Wright’s impact on Australian literature is undeniable. Her dedication to telling stories that resonate with readers and challenge societal norms has cemented her reputation as a trailblazing writer whose work will stand the test of time. With Praiseworthy, Wright continues to push the boundaries of fiction and inspire audiences to engage with complex issues facing our world today.