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Don Swaim Interviews

Audio Interviews with Thomas Keneally

The Australian author, Thomas Keneally, describes the literary establishment in Australia, and why he calls his homeland an “adolescent” country. He also explains how screenplay writing differs from book writing and discusses his novel, Schindler’s Ark, which was turned into a movie by Stephen Spielberg, retitled Schindler’s List. Keneally is the recipient of The Booker Prize and the Miles Franklin Award.

Listen to the Thomas Keneally interview with Don Swaim,1983
(22 min. 28 sec.)

In this 1989 interview Thomas Keneally, an Australian born writer, talks about writing environments, and why it is better to write in grim settings. Keneally also discusses his book, Towards Asmara, which is about the Eritrean revolution against the formerly Soviet backed Ethiopians. Keneally has written many books including: Schindler’s Ark, Confederates and Rivertown.

Listen to the Thomas Keneally interview with Don Swaim,1989
(43 min. 20 sec.)

Thomas Keneally discusses his book, Flying Hero Class, which focuses on plane hijackers trying to make a political point and their association and conflicts with many people on the plane. Thomas also talks with Don how many people, including himself, are always cautious about flying.

Listen to the Thomas Keneally interview with Don Swaim,1991
(39 min. 28 sec.)

In this 1993 interview, Thomas Keneally tells of what he has been doing since his last visit. His latest novel Woman of the Inner Sea is discussed, and he points out some of the Australian terminology used in the book.

Listen to the Thomas Keneally interview with Don Swaim,1993
(38 min. 04 sec.)