In a world where many nations actively nurture their literary cultures, Australia’s approach appears increasingly lackluster. This sentiment was echoed by Karl Quinn in his recent analysis of the demise of the esteemed literary journal, Meanjin. The closure of this cultural icon has sparked a broader conversation about the state of literary support in Australia, highlighting a stark contrast with countries like France and the UK, where governmental policies significantly bolster the literary sector.
In France, the value-added tax (VAT) on books is set at a mere 5.5%, compared to 20% on other goods, while the UK imposes no VAT on books at all. Such measures have fostered a thriving bookstore culture, with Paris boasting approximately 800 bookshops for a population of 10.5 million. In contrast, Melbourne, with a population of 5.5 million, has only about 100 bookshops. This disparity underscores the challenges faced by Australian authors and publishers in reaching their audiences.
Challenges Facing Australian Literary Culture
Mark Rubbo, chairman of Readings, points out that the best way to support authors is through book purchases, which provide them with royalties. However, as bookstores dwindle, so do opportunities for discovering new writers. According to Nielsen Bookscan, Meanjin’s Winter Edition sold only 169 copies, with Readings accounting for 61 of those sales. Even with a few hundred copies sold to subscribers, the numbers suggest a waning appreciation for the journal.
The federal government’s recent initiative, Writers Australia, has been criticized for its vague objectives and limited budget. Rubbo fears it will merely offer grants for books that ultimately fail to sell due to the shrinking number of supportive bookshops.
The Impact of Meanjin’s Closure
Duncan Reid, a former guest editor of Meanjin, laments the loss of a platform that once amplified diverse voices, including Indigenous perspectives. He questions Melbourne University Publishing’s decision to silence such voices, which deserve to be heard in the community.
David Murray-Smith from Fitzroy criticizes the University of Melbourne’s decision to cut funding to Meanjin, describing it as cultural vandalism. He argues that the university has overlooked the journal’s role in enhancing its cultural credibility over decades.
Broader Implications for Writers and Publishers
For aspiring writers like David Jeffery from East Geelong, the closure of Meanjin represents a significant loss. He notes that being published in the same magazine as literary giants like Patrick White was once a mark of achievement. Now, with limited options like Overland remaining, the future for emerging writers seems uncertain.
The situation raises questions about the role of major institutions in supporting cultural projects. As Murray-Smith points out, there is an expectation for leadership and a commitment to preserving cultural assets, rather than resorting to drastic measures like shutting down a historic publication.
International Comparisons and Lessons
The announcement comes as other countries continue to demonstrate robust support for their literary sectors. In France, government policies have resulted in a vibrant bookstore culture, while the UK’s zero VAT on books encourages reading and literary engagement. These examples highlight the potential for policy-driven support to revitalize Australia’s literary scene.
According to experts, fostering a strong literary culture requires more than just financial investment. It involves creating an environment where diverse voices can thrive and where readers have ample opportunities to engage with literature.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Australian Literature
As Australia grapples with the implications of Meanjin’s closure, there is a pressing need for a strategic approach to literary support. This includes not only funding initiatives but also ensuring that bookstores and literary journals can continue to play their crucial roles in the cultural ecosystem.
The move represents a call to action for policymakers, cultural institutions, and the public to recognize the value of a vibrant literary culture. By learning from international examples and prioritizing the voices that shape our cultural landscape, Australia can work towards a more supportive environment for its writers and readers.
Ultimately, the future of Australian literature depends on a collective effort to preserve and promote the platforms that allow stories to be told and heard. As the nation reflects on the lessons from Meanjin’s closure, there is hope for a renewed commitment to nurturing the literary arts.
