What is the role of the writer in troubled times? Tony Birch with Michael Williams on the ethical imagination
About this episode
The episode explores the role of writers in addressing societal issues and their responsibilities during troubled times.
Writers have access to endless worlds, perspectives and experiences — both real and imagined. So what should they do with that privilege? Do they have a responsibility to try to change the world? To cultivate empathy and understanding? Or to simply bear witness? The Melbourne Writers Festival closing night address was recorded on Sunday 10 May 2026. Speakers: Professor Tony Birch Author, The White Girl , Women and Children , Ghost River , Blood and moreBoisbouvier Chair in Australian Literature at the University of MelbourneHistorian, activist, teacher, long distance runner Michael Williams (host)Editor, The Monthly magazineHost, Read This podcast
People in this episode
Host: Michael Williams
Guest: Tony Birch
Topics covered
- writing
- ethical imagination
- empathy
- responsibility
- witnessing
- literature
Keywords
- writer
- ethical imagination
- empathy
- Melbourne Writers Festival
- Tony Birch
- Michael Williams
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: University of Melbourne
Books & works: The White Girl, Women and Children, Ghost River, Blood
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