Australian Essays

"Australian Essays" by Francis Adams is a compilation of writings from the end of the 1800s that looks deeply into Australian society, culture, and poems to expose the workings of cities like Melbourne and Sydney. Through observation, Adams wrestles with both the developing Australian identity and the impacts of Anglo-Saxon culture on the budding country. "Australian Essays" begins with foreword that shows Adams' thoughts on the Australian Press and its part in creating stories about culture. He talks about how Australian identity had little critical discussion. He points out that Melbourne is a little world of knowledge, power, and growth. Melbourne is shown as a city trying to confirm itself in terms of culture while dealing with its identity while bringing attention to its Anglo-Saxon roots as well as the difficulties that come from it. Adams sets the atmosphere for a greater talk about the value of writing, culture, and social topics within Australian society.