A Morbid Fascination

The examination of white South African literature reveals a complex relationship with politics, characterized by both a deep engagement with political themes and a pervasive aversion to political involvement. Peck analyzes a diverse array of works, from popular adventure and mystery novels to significant literary contributions by authors like Alan Paton and Nadine Gordimer. The study highlights the anti-political tendencies within the liberal literary tradition and the challenges faced by writers attempting to foster a more constructive political discourse, reflecting the troubling political culture of their time.