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'The purpose in this paper is to trace the poetic progress of John Kinsella, as an example of an Australian poetic attack on the traditions of the 'pastoral Eden' − the idea that humans are inclined to be more moral and more appealingly human if they are closer to 'Nature', i.e., away from the inherent evil and corrupting influences of cities, or similar urban and industrial situations.' (p. 1)
This essay reflects 'on the notion of a progressive imaginative vision of Australians living with their land, along the way considering a range of Australian poems and literary figures.' Wilson seeks 'realistic, celebratory visions of contemporary Australians living in their home. Specifically...the post-pastoral in Australian poetry.' (p. 1)