10.4225/03/59211ef026a4b Iris Ralph Iris Ralph A Green Flaw in the Crystal Glass: Patrick White’s Riders in the Chariot Monash University 2017 Patrick White Australian literature philosophy metaphysics Australian Literature (excl. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Literature) 2017-05-21 05:00:28 Journal contribution https://bridges.monash.edu/articles/journal_contribution/A_Green_Flaw_in_the_Crystal_Glass_Patrick_White_s_Riders_in_the_Chariot/4996172 As he himself averred more than once and as the critical reception recognises, Australian writer Patrick White identifies with a literary tradition that is metaphysical, romantic, and theosophical in its avenues of inquiry and its impulses. A 1969 essay by White titled “In the Making,” opens with this statement: “Religion. Yes, that’s behind all my books. What I am interested in is the relationship between the blundering human being and God.” A 1970 correspondence by White houses this comment: “I believe most people have a religious factor, but are afraid that by admitting it they will forfeit their right to be considered intellectuals.”