Simon Winchester: The Breath of the Gods

Bestselling author and polymath Simon Winchester reveals how the wind – an unseen force with astonishing influence – has shaped humanity's past and will define its future.

A meditation on humankind's relationship with something that cannot be seen, only felt, The Breath of the Gods is the astonishing new work by the prolific Simon Winchester. Sweeping and deeply perceptive, it traces humanity's attempts to understand, harness and transform the world's atmosphere, and considers how a changing climate is reshaping it before our eyes.

With host Michael Williams, Winchester journeys through the literature, history, science and poetry of the wind – from its generative and cataclysmic power to its presence in myths and folktales and its foundational role in global trade, transport and energy. He examines a world in which the winds, once steady companions, are now rendered volatile by human activity – a reminder of our fragile place within the natural order.

Compelling, erudite and suffused with an undimmed sense of wonder, Winchester reflects on how these invisible currents can both imperil our lives and sustain them, offering a profound meditation on power, vulnerability and our enduring dependence on the unseen forces of the world.

Presented by RMIT University in partnership with The Wheeler Centre.

Share

Upcoming events

A dancer in a glowing blue outfit

Ballet of Lights - Sleeping Beauty

Icon / Small / Calendar Created with Sketch. 04 Jul 2025 - 31 Dec 2025

This beloved tale is brought to life through classical dance, stunning choreography, and beautiful glow-in-the-dark costumes.

Two characters from Peter Pan on stage

Ballet of Lights - Peter Pan

Icon / Small / Calendar Created with Sketch. 26 Jul 2025 - 31 Dec 2025

Experience Peter Pan reimagined with Ballet of Lights! Six performers in illuminated costumes bring this classic story to life through dance, light, and colour.

lucas-ref-1220x732.jpg

Lucas: Why I Hate Human?

Icon / Small / Calendar Created with Sketch. 16 Jan 2026
Icon / Small / Location Created with Sketch. The Capitol

Malaysian Chinese comedian Lucas presents a fearless 70‑minute special dissecting modern life: politics, privacy, war, relationships and our hidden biases, with sharp wit and tender humanity. Expect provocative insights, big laughs and audience reflection. Strict late‑entry, no recording, and content confidentiality apply.

Load more
aboriginal flag float-start torres strait flag float-start

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

Learn more about our commitment to Indigenous cultures