Manning Clark was a complex, demanding and brilliant man. Mark McKenna's
compelling biography of this giant of Australia's cultural landscape is
informed by his reading of Clark's extensive private letters, journals
and diaries - many that have never been read before.
'An Eye for Eternity
paints a sweeping portrait of the man who gave Australians the
signature account of their own history. It tells of his friendships with
Patrick White and Sidney Nolan. It details an urgent and dynamic
marriage, ripped apart at times by Clark's constant need for
extramarital romantic love. A son who wrote letters to his dead parents.
A historian who placed narrative ahead of facts. A believer who flirted
with Catholicism. A controversial public figure who marked slights and
criticisms with deeply held grudges.
To understand Clark's life is to
understand twentieth century Australia. And it raises fundamental
questions about the craft of biography. When are letters too personal,
comments too hurtful and insights too private to publish? Clark
incessantly documented his life - leaving notes to the biographers he
knew would pursue his story. He had a deep need to be remembered and
this book means he will now be understood in an unforgettable way.' (Publisher's blurb)
