Uploaded June 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
Presented by The Bob Hawke Prime Ministerial Centre
In this special in-conversation event, Distinguished Professor Stan Grant AM reflects on his latest book When Words Fail Us, Truth Beyond Time, in discussion with Director and Writer Professor Wesley Enoch AM.
One of Australia’s most compelling voices on identity, nationhood and belonging, Grant explores how we speak to one another in fractured times - and whether listening, silence and philosophy might offer another way forward.
Drawing on thinkers from Plato to Simone Weil, and even Radiohead, this conversation offers a thoughtful evening of ideas, reflection and generous dialogue.
"I am out of words at home. I have grown bored with my language, bored with my voice, bored with my writing. My words labour under the weight of Australia’s history. The land itself, as much as I love it, bears down hard.
Now in another place, I am finding lighter words. At times, I may not need to speak at all. I smile; I nod. I seek permission to speak. Please, do you mind? Will you allow me?" Stan Grant, When Words Fail Us, Truth Beyond Time
hawkecentre.adelaide.edu.au
Presented by The Bob Hawke Prime Ministerial Centre
In this special in-conversation event, Distinguished Professor Stan Grant AM reflects on his latest book When Words Fail Us, Truth Beyond Time, in discussion with Director and Writer Professor Wesley Enoch AM.
One of Australia’s most compelling voices on identity, nationhood and belonging, Grant explores how we speak to one another in fractured times - and whether listening, silence and philosophy might offer another way forward.
Drawing on thinkers from Plato to Simone Weil, and even Radiohead, this conversation offers a thoughtful evening of ideas, reflection and generous dialogue.
"I am out of words at home. I have grown bored with my language, bored with my voice, bored with my writing. My words labour under the weight of Australia’s history. The land itself, as much as I love it, bears down hard.
Now in another place, I am finding lighter words. At times, I may not need to speak at all. I smile; I nod. I seek permission to speak. Please, do you mind? Will you allow me?" Stan Grant, When Words Fail Us, Truth Beyond Time
hawkecentre.adelaide.edu.au
