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A Spike Milligan opus, containing everything from classics to hidden gems, with a foreword by Eddie Izzard. This stunning anthology of Spike Milligan's work comprises of favourites from his classic books ('Adolf Hitler: My Part in his Downfall', 'Goodbye Soldier', 'Puckoon'...) as well as scripts from the now-classic Goon Show. Interspersing such comic genius is also a touching collection of letters and his celebrated and liberating writings on depression, demonstrating the diverse talent of a man whose creative output spanned over half a century.A selection of children's poetry and writings ('Unspun Socks for A Chicken's Laundry', 'A Book of Milliganimals', 'Silly Verse for Kids' and much more) reveals Spike's irresistible connection with the childlike imagination and a brillant sense of the ridiculous. All the favourite and funniest stories are there. For those who want an excellent introduction to the mind of Milligan or a welcome return to a much-loved genius, this is the ultimate Milligan reader.
This comprehensive anthology captures the chaotic, irreverent, and often poignant creative output of Spike Milligan, serving as a definitive survey of his multifaceted career. The collection functions as a non-linear exploration of Milligan's mind, moving between the absurdity of his prose, the rhythmic playfulness of his children's poetry, and the stark vulnerability of his personal correspondence. Readers are presented with a fragmented narrative framework that mirrors the author's own erratic and brilliant creative process, forcing a confrontation with both the hilarity of his public persona and the gravity of his private struggles. The work operates as a bridge between his scripted comedic performances and his introspective literary contributions, demanding that the reader navigate the shifting tones of a singular, restless intellect.
This anthology is widely regarded as a vital entry point for those unfamiliar with the breadth of Spike Milligan's contributions to twentieth-century comedy. The collection successfully balances the manic energy of his radio scripts with the quieter, more reflective nature of his poetry and letters. Critics and readers alike note that the inclusion of his writing on mental health provides a necessary depth to the caricature of the comedian. The work serves as a testament to his enduring influence on British satire and his unique ability to oscillate between the ridiculous and the profound.
Page Count:
344
Publication Date:
2003-01-01
Publisher:
Fourth Estate
ISBN-10:
0007155115
ISBN-13:
9780007155118
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