Author talks with Stan Grant
Florence Guild Presents welcomed Professor Stan Grant as the inaugural speaker opening a new event series – Author Talks. Stan is a renowned journalist, author, moral philosopher, filmmaker, and communicator, Stan’s presence set the stage for a deeply thought-provoking and memorable evening held at Work Club 200 George Street.
As the first Indigenous Political and Foreign Correspondent and the first to present a prime-time commercial news program, Stan has long been a trailblazer in Australian media. His insights on justice, unity, and global affairs provided the audience with an inspiring discussion on the power of truth and storytelling.
WAR, MEDIA & HEARTACHE
Central to the evening was the discussion of his latest book, Murriyang – Song of Time, a reflective and deeply personal work that delves into his father’s difficult past, his own journey as a journalist, and his evolving understanding of the media’s role in shaping society. He spoke about his former addiction to chasing war stories, revealing how he was consumed by the relentless pursuit of conflict and heartbreak. War “exhilarated” him, it was where he felt most “alive”, but it also took a deep personal toll. The constant exposure to violence and suffering shaped his worldview, leaving him disconnected from the people closest to him.
“I FOUND MYSELF AS A TARGET”
Following his coverage of the King’s coronation on ABC, “I was thrust into this vicious debate, this vicious political campaign about who we are as a nation”. This was a deeply personal breaking point – he and his family had endured horrific backlash, including vile abuse and even death threats. The weight of such hostility became unbearable, forcing him to step away from the media for the sake of his own well-being and that of his loved ones. His words carried raw emotion, underscoring the urgent need for ethical storytelling, media accountability, and a greater sense of humanity in journalism.
A Guiding Light in His Storytelling
Beyond media and politics, Stan offered profound insights into his relationship with the Christian faith. He spoke about how his connection to God has helped him reframe his storytelling, focusing not only on the struggles of the world but also on the beauty and resilience within it. He reflected on the teachings of Jesus, particularly how, even in his final moments on the cross, he said, “Forgive them, for they know not what they do.” This message of forgiveness has profoundly shaped Stan’s outlook, guiding him to find grace even in the face of adversity.
For Stan, faith is not just a source of comfort but a lens through which he now chooses to see the world. Rather than being consumed by anger or despair, he has embraced a narrative that acknowledges hardship while also celebrating the good.
This shift, he shared, has allowed him to write from a place of hope and understanding, focusing on stories that illuminate resilience, kindness, and the possibility of redemption.
THE NEXT CHAPTER
Looking ahead, Stan dropped a few hints about his plans to begin writing a new book. While he didn’t reveal too much, he spoke about the importance of place in his creative process, explaining how the setting in which he writes profoundly influences his storytelling.
With a touch of humour, he recounted telling his wife, “We have to go to England,” drawing laughter from the audience. He has booked an Airbnb in the Cotswolds, trusting that once he arrives, settles in, and positions himself in front of a window overlooking the rugged beauty of the landscape, the words will “flow out of me.”
A Powerful Start to Inspiring Conversations
The evening concluded with an engaging discussion, where guests had the opportunity to further explore Stan’s experiences and reflections.
His wisdom and authenticity left an indelible mark on all who attended, making this inaugural Author Talks event a powerful beginning to what promises to be an inspiring series.
Florence Guild Presents is honoured to have hosted such a significant voice in Australian thought and storytelling. As we continue to bring forward leading thinkers and changemakers, we look forward to more conversations that challenge, enlighten, and inspire.