This engrossing collection presents the letters between six Australian writers in the years 1930-1957. The women discuss their work as writers, their political views and activities and the turmoils and banalities of their personal lives, in letters that are funny, serious, often beautifully written and at times breathtakingly honest and moving. From the early notes of mutual support to the rich correspondence of long-held friendships, these letters offer a unique and intimate perspective on these extraordinary women. At the same time, the collection forms a narrative and commentary on the literary, social and political events of these turbulent years that witnessed the Depression, the Second World War and the beginnings of the Cold War. Annotated and complemented by Carole Ferrier's background information and careful editing, this collection will be fascinating to anyone with an interest in Australia's cultural history.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements; Notes on editorial philosophy and practice; Introduction; The Letters; Chronology; References; Biographical notes; Bibliography of correspondents' main published works; Location of letters; Index; Note on sources.