Age of Consent (novel)

Age of Consent is a 1938 novel by Australian author Norman Lindsay. Set on a remote island off the coast of Queensland, Australia, the story revolves around the jaded and aging artist, Bradly Murdock, who has retreated from the urban art world in search of peace and inspiration.

Murdock encounters and becomes infatuated with Cora, a young, impoverished, and precocious teenager. His artistic spark is reignited, and he begins painting and drawing her. The novel explores themes of art, beauty, innocence, exploitation, aging, and the complex relationship between the artist and the muse. It also examines societal attitudes towards youth and the contrasting values of rural and urban life.

The book was controversial upon its release due to its depiction of a young girl and its frank portrayal of sexuality, leading to censorship challenges in both Australia and other countries. Despite the controversy, Age of Consent is considered one of Lindsay's more significant works and has been adapted into a 1969 film of the same name, directed by Michael Powell, starring James Mason and Helen Mirren. The novel continues to be discussed and analyzed for its artistic merit and its exploration of sensitive social issues.