Not Logged in.
Book Jacket

The Lost Man


"Strong characters, riveting plot and an honest look at life in the Australian ...
Summary and Reviews
Excerpt
Reading Guide
Author Biography

In what ways does the idea of the lonely stockman's grave permeate the novel? What does it have to say about outback life, both now and in the past?

Created: 12/23/19

Replies: 5

Posted Dec. 23, 2019 Go to Top | Go to bottom | link | alert
davinamw

Join Date: 10/15/10

Posts: 3442

In what ways does the idea of the lonely stockman's grave permeate the novel? What does it have to say about outback life, both now and in the past?

The stockman's grave is the scene of several major events in this book. It is the location of Cameron's death, it is the focal point of Ilse's escape plan, and it is the source of Cameron's prize-winning painting. In what ways does the idea of this lonely grave permeate the novel? What does it have to say about outback life, both now and in the past?


Posted Jan. 07, 2020 Go to Top | Go to bottom | link | alert
renem

Join Date: 12/01/16

Posts: 292

RE: In what ways does the idea of the lonely stockman's grave permeate the novel? What does it have to say about outback life, both now and in the past?

In such a large area with minimal locals (only 65) the stockman's grave was a point of reference as well as a landmark. It was unique because of it's location and the direction in which it faced, west, toward the desert where it was not a first choice of destination for most. There were many versions of the lore of the grave passed on from one local to another, which often changed to suit the needs of the teller. Just like the Outback itself, the people who live there are faced with wildness and extremes; they embody much that is most distinctive characteristic of Australia.


Posted Jan. 08, 2020 Go to Top | Go to bottom | link | alert
Marcia S

Join Date: 02/08/16

Posts: 505

RE: In what ways does the idea of the lonely stockman's grave permeate the novel? What does it have to say about outback life, both now and in the past?

I really felt it was symbolic of the isolation and desolation of the area. It was the grave of someone who died trying to save his family. Isn't that what the book is all about— saving the family? I thought the stockman's grave helped to pull the story together.


Posted Jan. 08, 2020 Go to Top | Go to bottom | link | alert
susiej

Join Date: 10/15/14

Posts: 363

RE: In what ways does the idea of the lonely stockman's grave permeate the novel? What does it have to say about outback life, both now and in the past?

I agree with you, Marcia S., but I also saw it as an ironic marker. A grave is an end marker - constructed at the end of one's life - and in this situation it is ironic in that it marks the beginning for so many of the other characters in this novel.


Posted Jan. 16, 2020 Go to Top | Go to bottom | link | alert
Missys

Join Date: 10/24/17

Posts: 46

RE: In what ways does the idea of the lonely stockman's grave permeate the novel? What does it have to say about outback life, both now and in the past?

Every small town has an iconic symbol that is a point of reference (i.e. town square, church, town bell tower etc). The stockman's grave is that iconic symbol. The outback is massive, so it needs a physical marker - a central focal point for travel, lore, and mystery. The physical grave marker permeates all aspects of the novel (life, death, hope, resolution, and redemption) in more than just a physical way.


Posted Jan. 16, 2020 Go to Top | Go to bottom | link | alert
louisee

Join Date: 06/29/15

Posts: 143

RE: In what ways does the idea of the lonely stockman's grave permeate the novel? What does it have to say about outback life, both now and in the past?

I agree with MarciaS that it is an almost daily reminder of the isolation and desolation of the area. It reminds people of the sacrifice made for family and for living there.


Reply

Please login to post a response.