Rodney Hall (writer)

Rodney Hall (born 18 November 1937) is an Australian poet, novelist, librettist and musician. He is known for his complex narratives, often exploring themes of identity, history, and the Australian landscape.

Hall was born in Solihull, England, and emigrated to Australia with his family in 1948. He began his writing career as a poet, publishing several collections of verse before turning to prose.

Hall has received numerous awards for his work, including the Miles Franklin Award (twice, for Just Relations in 1983 and The Grisly Wife in 1994), the Vance Palmer Prize for Fiction, and the Age Book of the Year Award. He was also awarded the Canada Australia Literary Prize.

His notable novels include The Second Bridegroom, Captivity Captive, A Place Among People, and The Day We Had Hitler Home. He has also written extensively for the stage, including operas and plays. His work is characterized by lyrical prose, vivid imagery, and a deep engagement with Australian history and culture. He was elected a Fellow of the Australian Academy of the Humanities in 1974.