Reconciling Opposites: Innocence and Experience in David Malouf’s Fly Away Peter.

Abstract

The 20th century had witnessed two devastating wars, and mankind has suffered the effects unleashed by the two wars. It is a well-acknowledged fact that the entire world was affected by the effects of the First World War, considered to be one of the largest wars in history. The psychological and physical wounds inflicted upon mankind by the disastrous consequences of the War have provided many writers with the material for their literary works. As literature, fiction in particular, is considered an effective medium to portray the evil effects of war on mankind; the writers of the postcolonial era have resorted to express their anti-war sentiments through their works. David Malouf, a prominent Australian writer of the contemporary times, has essayed to expose his views against wars, and justify his concern for his fellow beings. The present article seeks to examine Malouf’s Fly Away Peter as a sincere exploration of a man’s physical and spiritual journey from innocence to experience through his move from Australia to Europe when he joins up to fight in the first World  War. In this sense, the novel not only turns out to be story of an individual, but also casts light on the effects of the First World War on the Australian society. The novel also attests to Malouf’s superb ability to blend history and fictional imagination, and also stands out as a significant contribution towards understanding Australian War experience.