Michael Winkler's Novel 'Griefdogg' Explores Identity and Nihilism Through a Man's Transformation

Michael Winkler's second novel, 'Griefdogg,' published by Text Publishing, follows protagonist Jeffrey, a hydrologist and family man. After inheriting a seven-figure sum following his aunt's death, Jeffrey rejects his former life, gives his inheritance to his wife Martine, and transforms into the family pet, renamed Hubert. The narrative employs stream-of-consciousness prose, alternating between third and first person, rich in Australian colloquialisms, Greek roots, and philosophical references. Jeffrey's wife Martine and adolescent child Bern resist this change, but Hubert abdicates all human responsibilities while still benefiting from their care. The book explores themes of emotional catharsis-by-proxy, the destruction of self as creation, and ambiguous moral questions about self-actualization versus selfishness. Winkler's debut 'Grimmish' was shortlisted for the 2022 Miles Franklin Award. The novel's fluid, fragmentary style avoids conventional storytelling, leaving interpretation open for readers. It presents a semi-surrealist examination of existence, capitalism, and nihilism.