“The last day of school never ends, it just fizzles out – for the rest of your life” – Michael Leunig, The Lot.
Michael Leunig wrangles words to give unusual
character to everyday things, a personality to the wildlife in the Australian
land and even gives a heartbeat to the land. These essays punch brutal and very
real commentary on the state of the Australian culture, politics, and identity
(or the lack of). It is an insight into his childhood and the childhood of many
from his era. His outlook on the Vietnam to Iraq wars and how much pain that
was left in the end, the things we didn’t gain and for whom they were actually
fought for. Most importantly how we have failed to learn and let history repeat
itself. There are stories about growing up, dealing with fame, and how to be
true to oneself. I’m a Leunig fan; I love his cartoons and the way he writes. I
hold many beliefs similar to him and reading this book cements in my
understanding with his and many others like us. But I do not agree with
everything Leunig has to say but I do understand where he is coming from or
trying to get at. He wouldn’t want anyone to be a blind follower. We should
question what does not fit right with us until there is a logical answer.
These essays are sometimes
comforting, often slaps you into reality but always leaves you pondering.