It is now a world that has sadly vanished, much like the characters in her wonderful story. While lesser known for her painting on canvas, in 'Time Without Clocks' she paints with words a vibrant picture of the world in which she lived in the first half of the twentieth century. The cracked pedestal still occupies its place in frozen time, on the grounds of her and Daryl's former home, 'Mulberry Hill', in Langwarrin, which is beautifully maintained by the National Trust of Victoria and open to the public.ĭespite what some may perceive as her privileged background, she and Daryl remained very well-grounded people who did, in their own way, face difficult periods together, but remained focussed and survived to help establish the National Gallery of Victoria for the public appreciation of art. This suited Joan very well it seemed, and it was never repaired. She provides some detail of her repulsion to timekeeping, something which was even extended to their sundial-a present from a relative-whose pedestal was already cracked and incapable of securing the dial plate. It also describes the great love she shared for her husband, Daryl, a gifted painter, and why she attributed such significance to St Valentine's Day. The reader may also note figures through her life who bear a striking resemblance to some of the characters described in her 'Picnic at Hanging Rock' they were, no doubt, a great inspiration for her and gave foundation to her writing. It provides an insight into the life of one of Victoria's great women and of those who influenced her. I must say that I really enjoyed this book.

Joan lindsay