Martin Booth – författare

First published in 1985, British Poetry presents a personal and political account of British poetry from 1964 to 1984. Martin booth, himself a poet, poetry publisher, critic and editor, and the participant in poetry readings in Britain and overseas, shows that British poetry underwent a renaissance in the ten years from around 1964: poetry became a major popular art form, shaking off its shackles of elitism and academicism; poetry readings flourished, whether live or on the air and audiences increased; many new poets found willing publishers. He looks at the manner in which British poetry rose, only to fall back into a morbid sleek artiness where he sees it laying today, once again a narrow art for the literary educated and the initiated.

The book aims to reverse this change of direction so that British poetry may once again have the impact it briefly had in its recent heyday. Martin Booth also provides a general guide to the period, with much comment included from those who were involved in the act of keeping British poetry going in those exciting years. He deals with the poets themselves, with the publishing of poetry, and poetry magazines, and his ‘non-literary’, ‘non-academic’ approach will appeal to all those who have an interest in modern British verse.

First published in 1985, British Poetry presents a personal and political account of British poetry from 1964 to 1984. Martin booth, himself a poet, poetry publisher, critic and editor, and the participant in poetry readings in Britain and overseas, shows that British poetry underwent a renaissance in the ten years from around 1964: poetry became a major popular art form, shaking off its shackles of elitism and academicism; poetry readings flourished, whether live or on the air and audiences increased; many new poets found willing publishers. He looks at the manner in which British poetry rose, only to fall back into a morbid sleek artiness where he sees it laying today, once again a narrow art for the literary educated and the initiated.

The book aims to reverse this change of direction so that British poetry may once again have the impact it briefly had in its recent heyday. Martin Booth also provides a general guide to the period, with much comment included from those who were involved in the act of keeping British poetry going in those exciting years. He deals with the poets themselves, with the publishing of poetry, and poetry magazines, and his ‘non-literary’, ‘non-academic’ approach will appeal to all those who have an interest in modern British verse.

The locals in the southern Italian town where he lives call him Signor Farfalla—Mr. Butterfly—for he is a discreet gentleman who paints rare butterflies. His life is inconspicuous—mornings spent brushing at a canvas, afternoons idling in the cafes, and evenings talking with his friend, the town priest, over a glass of brandy.

Yet there are other sides to this gentleman’s life: Clara, the young student who moonlights in the town bordello, and another woman, who arrives with one hundred thousand dollars and a commission—but not for a painting of butterflies.

With this assignment returns the dark fear that has dogged Signor Farfalla’s mysterious life. Almost instantly, he senses a deadly circle closing in on him, one which he may or may not elude.

Part thriller, part character study, part drama of deceit and self-betrayal, The American shows Martin Booth at the very height of his powers.

Fresh and funny comedy performed by an all-star cast

This hilarious, fast paced, parody sketch show sends up classic BBC radio shows, travels through time and brings you Shakespeare as you''ve never heard it before. Tune in to Desert Island Discs with a twist, appreciate an orange-inal version of Hamlet and discover Tolstoy with a peel good factor. A spoof show like no other, The Long Hot Satsuma is a laugh out loud comedy packed with quick witted lines and the trademark dry humour of veteran comedians Alison Steadman, Barry Cryer and Graeme Garden. Action packed episodes include a high court judge-cum-plumber, a BBC announcer with the pips, an alien takeover and some unique royal commentary. A smooth blend of cleverly crafted comedy and pitch perfect parody, this show is full of juicy bits and will have you rolling with laughter. Keep listening, the zest is yet to come!

Recorded in front of a live audience, Olivier award winning and BAFTA nominated actor Alison Steadman (Abigail''s Party, Gavin and Stacey) performs with radio comedy legend Barry Cryer (I''m Sorry I Haven''t a Clue) and TV and radio star Graeme Garden (The Goodies). Their unmistakable voices and wit make this classic sketch show as fresh and funny today as it was when first recorded. Listen to all eight episodes now in this a-peeling new download only edition.

Cast and credits

Produced by Dirk Maggs

Featuring an ensemble cast

Graeme Garden

Barry Cryer

Alison Steadman

Paul B. Davies

Julia Hills

First Broadcast BBC Radio 2, May-July 1989

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