Creativity And Power

Why I wrote this book

Although I was teaching at Cromer High School as the cold case disappearance of Lynette Dawson and the male teacher and schoolgirl sex rings were unfolding, and although I had first heard of the allegations of murder in the 90’s this intriguing case has nothing directly to do with my reasons for penning this tale.

In fact, the only and indirect reference to Cromer High in my story was somewhat a matter of chance. Much of my novel, “Brownout-666: or the real meaning of the swastika,” is based on real events. I could have written part of the story as a nonfiction work but, aside from the constant danger of being sued for liable or defamation, I also wanted to include my take on what is happening to human society and its disastrous consequences around the world. Political inaction on climate change, corruption and how greed and abject stupidity, along with short sightedness on many levels have all long concerned me.

In addition I wished to explore exploitative sexuality along with the passion of Eros and romantic love – hence the graphic sex scenes. In Australia of the 70s and 80s many young men were sexually frustrated. That in addition to the prevailing culture of the time probably caused a sexually exploitative and conquest attitude amongst many males. It is these themes that are common to “The Teacher’s Pet” podcast and my novel.

Cory Aquino

The word “Brownout” appears many times and has meaning on numerous levels. When I lived in the Philippines in the late 80s and early 90s I told people that one day I would write a book called “Brownout.” Brownouts or the sudden cutting of electricity supply were ubiquitous during my sojourns in that country. On another level the term has metaphorical meaning. Cultural clash or inability to deal with problems in a logical and systematic way is just like the dying of the light. Many of the problems that I experienced in the Philippines, including the massive corruption, exist everywhere but in more subtle forms.

Truth and justice are almost impossible to achieve but every year our world seems to slip further and further from those ideals. My novel is both a warning and a call to action for humanity.