SEEKING THE DIVINE SPARK: A SATIRE IN THE STYLE OF EVELYN WAUGH
Gerard Charles Wilson
Sexual abuse cases involving the church have been widely reported in the Australian media – often sensationally and with uneven-handedness. Wilson contributes another perspective in the form of a satirical novel written in the style of Evelyn Waugh. His cast of media characters includes Norman Mudlord (radio talkback host), Titia Turnabout (his producer), Samantha Leggin (from Action News Broadcasting), and Torne Rutter (star reporter from the Morning Chronicle). Then there are the lawyers Lex Outasite and Aleta Broadface (from Hammersmut and Sludge). The church is represented by priests Frs Pleasance and Champion and Archbishop Ryan. Extras include Jake Skott (fading football star), Ben Downwood (politician). Dr Speerman (academic spokesman) and Chad Rockfist (pop singer). The story exposes the manipulative and cringe-worthy behaviours of many characters. It also calls focuses on some of society’s questionable attitudes. For samples and e-book versions, visit the author’s website http://www.gerardcharleswilson.com/books.htm. NS