Kathryn Simmonds, Poetry for Beginners, Radio 4 Afternoon Play
Kathryn Simmonds' Sunday at the Skin Launderette was just about my favourite book of poems published last year, so when I happened to notice that the Afternoon Play had been a repeat of a play by her, I was keen to find it on Listen Again.
It is set on a residential poetry course and the rest of the action writes itself. One of the two tutors is indisposed and so traditional, 'conservative' Celia has to work with young, dyed-haired slam performer, Fran. Retired teacher William, fan of Wordsworth, makes a direct line for Celia but she prefers the attentions of Nick, who is younger and 'a painter'. The obvious opposition is set up of old, traditional poetic technique against young, innovative, quick fix improvisation. Conflict comes to a climax over dinner and then the final session breaks down as each participant wants to pursue their own personal project.
The denouement depends on Celia finding Fran's recording device on which she makes her notes. Needless to say, the recordings found on it have large repercussions.
It is a beautifully-made set piece of Radio 4 drama, not necessarily extending our ideas about poetry but using a number of stock elements to provide 45 minutes of fine entertainment. Poetry, being such a precious and personal thing, is an ideal vehicle for such a comedy of ambition, self-delusion, lust and catharsis and Poetry for Beginners observed both the poetry scene and human nature with an uncomplicated humour.
Kathryn Simmonds' Sunday at the Skin Launderette was just about my favourite book of poems published last year, so when I happened to notice that the Afternoon Play had been a repeat of a play by her, I was keen to find it on Listen Again.
It is set on a residential poetry course and the rest of the action writes itself. One of the two tutors is indisposed and so traditional, 'conservative' Celia has to work with young, dyed-haired slam performer, Fran. Retired teacher William, fan of Wordsworth, makes a direct line for Celia but she prefers the attentions of Nick, who is younger and 'a painter'. The obvious opposition is set up of old, traditional poetic technique against young, innovative, quick fix improvisation. Conflict comes to a climax over dinner and then the final session breaks down as each participant wants to pursue their own personal project.
The denouement depends on Celia finding Fran's recording device on which she makes her notes. Needless to say, the recordings found on it have large repercussions.
It is a beautifully-made set piece of Radio 4 drama, not necessarily extending our ideas about poetry but using a number of stock elements to provide 45 minutes of fine entertainment. Poetry, being such a precious and personal thing, is an ideal vehicle for such a comedy of ambition, self-delusion, lust and catharsis and Poetry for Beginners observed both the poetry scene and human nature with an uncomplicated humour.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: only a member of this blog may post a comment.