Author(s): Dinah Hawkin

NZ Poetry

Dinah Hawken's new long poem interweaves her family history in the early years of Pakeha settlement in Taranaki; a short history of the Taranaki Wars; and her thoughts and feelings as she researched and wrote the poem. `The completion of the poem has not led me to any sense of resolution. It has led to something less measurable, perhaps more valuable-greater clarity, particularly of the depth of injustice Maori have endured in Taranaki. At the same time it has strengthened my attachment and my gratitude to my great and great-great grandparents, whom I know as essentially good people. And it has led me back to Parihaka: to profound respect for Te Whiti and Tohu, the art of leadership, the art of passive resistance, and their refusal of human war.'-Dinah Hawken