'The action of this book starts perhaps some twenty years from now and goes on for another generation or so. During that time I have assumed the formation of an autonomous Aboriginal State in Northern Australia, extending eastward along the northern coast to include some of what is now Queensland territory. It is called Murngin, somewhat accidentally, after one of many kinship groups or hordes (much as England was accidentally called after the tribe of Angles or as many a lake or mountain after long-forgotten officials or royalties). I assume that Darwin will be the capital of a predominantly white State of Northern Australia.'
