"Then about 1951 I began writing again, painfully, a novel I called in the beginning A Life Sentence on Earth, but which developed into The Tree of Man"

This quote by Patrick White is describing his composing career. In 1951, he began writing once again after a period of inactivity. He began composing an unique which he at first called A Life Sentence in the world, but it eventually became The Tree of Man. This novel was published in 1955 and is considered one of White's most important works. It is a story about a household living in rural Australia and their battles to find meaning in life. The book is seen as a reflection of White's own life and his search for meaning. It is a powerful and moving story that has actually resonated with readers for years. White's quote is a testament to his commitment to his craft and his ability to develop meaningful works of literature.