On Our Selection (ePub)

Steele Rudd is the pseudonym of Arthur Hoey Davis (1868-1935), an Australian writer best known for his rural-themed fiction, particularly the collection of short stories titled 'On Our Selection' (1899). This seminal work paints a vivid picture of Australian bush life and has been fundamental in shaping the portrayal of Australian rural culture in literature (Blake, 2003). As a former farmer and a public servant, Rudd drew heavily on his personal experiences of the harsh and often humorous realities of Australian bush life. His 'Dad and Dave' stories, which began with 'On Our Selection', remain among the most popular and enduringly affectionate accounts of Australian country life. They humorously depict the lives of the Rudd family on their selection - a term for a plot of land allotted to settlers by the government under a now-defunct policy intended to encourage domestic agriculture. Rudd's work is characterized by a strong sense of realism, an ear for authentic dialogue, and a wry sense of humor. While some critique his romanticized depiction of pioneering Australia, Rudd's work nevertheless presents an insightful and comedic exploration of community and resilience in the outback. The 'Selection' series, comprising several volumes, has been adapted into stage plays, radio serials, and movies, further cementing Rudd's legacy as a foundational figure in Australian literature and cultural heritage (Greenwood, 1995).