Literature is all around us

When I think of literature – or a good novel – I think of many things; Harry Potter, Shakespeare, and the book I read over the holidays. But when I think of it locally, I think of the past. I think of a great life before us. I think of a well-known story of our childhood: Mary Poppins.

But why would just one classic story have to do with the Southern Highlands, when it is set in London, in Edwardian times? Well, have you ever seen the Mary Poppins statue in Glebe Park? It is there to remember and commemorate the wonderful author of the book: P.L. Travers – who is closer to Bowral than we may think.

Literature is all around us…

Pamela Lyndon Travers was a writer who was born in Maryborough, Queensland, as Helen Lyndon Goff. However, after the death of her father, she and the rest of her family moved to Bowral. Here, the idea of the famous fictional character Mary Poppins was born. Her influence on such an idea? Her family and personal life played a huge role in her inspiration.

Literature is all around us…

But when we come to think of it, literature is even closer to us than we know it! For example, your favourite book to read. A textbook in class. Or perhaps a text in a foreign language – such as French, Latin, or Japanese. But then think deeper: a speech on a current world issue. An essay for a school assessment task. A poem that you love to read. These are all examples of how literature connects us all.

So, whether you are the ‘English person’ or not, or the bookworm, or a writer like me – there is a connection that we have, despite our differences. Reading and writing is like a precious gift – hold it tight and treat it with care. And if you are holding that gift in your hands, use it! Many have just done that before you. Remember…

Literature is all around us.

Ruby C., Year 7