Booker Prize-winning novelist Richard Flanagan has moved to defuse mounting industry chatter after abruptly pulling out of his headline appearance at the Brisbane Writers Festival.

The Tasmanian author’s sudden cancellation initially sparked unease across the literary community, fueling rumors regarding potential internal disputes. However, Flanagan moved swiftly to downplay the drama, clarifying that his absence was purely operational.

Festival organizers confirmed the broader program will proceed as planned, assuring ticket holders that replacement panels will be announced in due course.