In 1994, Australian poet Dorothy Porter broke new ground with Monkey’s Mask, a lesbian crime novel written entirely in verse. This genre-defying work became a bestseller and was later adapted for the stage, screen, and radio, solidifying Porter’s reputation as a literary trailblazer.
Best known for her evocative and erotically charged poetry, Porter had previously gained recognition for Akhenaten (1992), a poetic exploration of the life of an Egyptian pharaoh. However, Monkey’s Mask was a defining moment in her career.
“[The film] rocked her socks off,” her sister, Josie McSkimming, told ABC Radio National’s Late Night Live.
A Struggle for Recognition
Despite her popularity, Porter often felt overlooked by the literary establishment. Securing literary grants was a constant struggle, leading to deep frustration.
“She was absolutely full of fury,” McSkimming recalled. “The big bad boys of poetry always seemed to get the money, and she was really annoyed about that. That filled her diary for pages.”
Yet, audiences adored her. Known for her electrifying performances, Porter captivated readers and listeners alike. Her work resonated deeply, drawing crowds to her readings and earning her a devoted following.
A Life Cut Short, A Legacy That Endures
Porter, who published more than a dozen poetry collections and verse novels, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2004. She passed away four years later, at the age of 54.
Now, two decades after the release of Monkey’s Mask, McSkimming has written Gutsy Girls: Love, Poetry and Sisterhood, a family memoir honoring her sister’s fearless spirit and literary contributions.
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