Discover the captivating 'Journals 1938-1945' by Charles Brasch, a profound collection of writings that provide an intimate look into the mind of a young man navigating the complexities of life during the Second World War. This hardback edition, measuring 170 x 245 mm, consists of 648 pages of rich, reflective prose that grapples with monumental questions of identity and belonging. As Brasch meticulously chronicles his thoughts in London, readers are invited into his worldview—one filled with questions of pacifism, love, and creativity.

These journals are not just personal reflections; they offer a vivid portrayal of the era’s landscape, showcasing the lives of various individuals Brasch encounters, including conscientious objectors and civil servants from Bletchley Park. With insights into his struggles and hopes for returning home to New Zealand after the war, Brasch emerges as a voice of introspection that resonates with anyone seeking connection and meaning amid chaos.

Published by Otago University Press on 15-10-2013, this compelling volume is essential for readers interested in New Zealand literature, war history, and personal diaries that delve into the human condition. Charles Brasch's legacy as a prominent figure in New Zealand's literary scene began with these very journals, making them not only a historical artifact but also a profound source of inspiration.

Enjoy the convenience of fast shipping—this product is in stock in NZ, ensuring no unexpected import charges, custom duty, or tax. We’re also happy to combine shipping for your convenience.

CONDITION: Brand New
Dimensions: 170 x 245 mm
Pages: 648
Bind: hardback
Author: Charles Brasch Publisher: Otago University Press
Publication Date: 15-10-2013

For most of his adult life, Charles Brasch’s most intimate companion was his diary. In these journals, written in London during the Second World War, he is a young man searching for answers. Is he a pacifist? Should he join the army? Is he homosexual? Should he marry? Should he return home to New Zealand when the war ends? Are his poems any good? Some questions are resolved in the course of the journals, others not, but it all makes compelling reading. So, too, do the people we meet in these pages: kith and kin, conscientious objectors, civil servants working at Bletchley Park (as Brasch was to), members of the Adelphi Players, fellow fire wardens, refugees from Europe, and artists and writers both English and Kiwi. As Rachel Barrowman writes in her introductory essay, on his return home Brasch was to hold ‘a central place in New Zealand literary life for two decades’, as founder of Landfall, and as patron, mentor and writer. In these splendid journals, he prepares for that role.



I have to think about my return to NZ & the possibility of living there; the thought of it haunts me, part vision, part nightmare … Charles Brasch, 21.6.42

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, custom duty or tax.