That 'whitesplaining' thing

Here's what you do if you want an article about yourself on the front of THE SYDNEY MORNING HERALD.

1) Talk to a reporter about your play.

2) Answer any questions truthfully

3) Use a portmanteau word like 'white-splaining' to describe the process whereby the Non-Indigenous director of your ( Indigenous ) play has imposed his own political agenda on your play.

It was an easy enough task. But the word had people up in arms, as well my reference to the type of writer that major Australian theatre companies are courting nowadays.

Not only was the play appropriated,  but my concern about the director's process was hijacked as well. 

In time I'll detail the whole messy affair with directors, literary managers and theatre companies who ignore the blatant theft of plays by writers who should know better. 

For now, it is the work that matters.

But that word which caused some consternation... it's been around for years.

So here's a bit about WHITE-SPLAINING I found - just in case there is still someone out there who thinks I have anything against white people.

Maybe I should let my white wife in on that secret I suppose...

Sincerely,

H Lawrence Sumner.