Alternative small press publishing in New Zealand : an introduction, with particular reference to the years 1969-1999

Abstract

This thesis is on small press literary publishing in New Zealand in the last thirty years. The method of information gathering is mainly primary resource material in the form of questionnaires sent to those directly involved as small press publishers during that period. The overwhelming response to the twenty five questionnaires (twenty three positive replies, the two who couldn't respond gave full support for the project) shows a need in the small press fraternity to give their view and to have their contribution to New Zealand literature more broadly acknowledged. The brief historical background to the history of literary publication in New Zealand since 1830 briefly touches on the lack of Maori small press publishers, seemingly nonexistent until the advent of Huia Publishers in 1991. Huia being one of my respondents makes the issue of Maori publishing relevant to small presses in New Zealand, both in an historical and contemporary sense. That the 1960's cultural 'revolution' influenced the small press movement is a major theme, a fact borne out time and again from the primary source material. This thesis recognises people who dedicate so much time and resources to ensure that our literature is vibrant and alive. The protagonists from the 1960's era who had a profound effect on the 'youth culture' like Bob Dylan and John Lennon are shown to have had a significant influence by simply showing that "You can do it." That waiting for official sanction was not necessary - a major underlying catalyst to those involved in small presses. The respondents challenge the myth that self-publishing is somehow inferior, asserting that small press publishing allows the artist control over their work, and that this is a positive and desirable thing.