Patrick White: Voss

Voss is the story of an expedition in 1845, the preparations for it and its aftermath. This study explores the depths and subtleties behind the simple organization of the novel to demonstrate its central theme, human life as the excerise of pure will. The author analyses the complex nature of Voss himself, his relationships with Laura, his drive to wrestle with the continent - the sole opponent worthy of him - and the transforming process that leads to final redemption. He stresses the importance of Australia as a character in the novel and shows how her unique landscape is conveyed with a sense of its physical quality and spiritual suggestiveness. White's use of language, with the blend of poetry and aggression, biblical imagery and malicious wit, is examined and conflicting critical views of Voss discussed. This perceptive appreciation not only explains the structure and significance of the text, but also relates White's firth novel to his writing as a whole, placing Voss firmly in the context of his mature work.