18 June 2008
Mortification: Writers Tell of Their Public Shame
Humiliation is not, of course, unique to writers but, perhaps, as editor Robin Robertson says, there is something about the conjunction of high-mindedness and low income that is inherently comic. Something about the presentation of deeply private thoughts - carefully worked and honed into art over the years - to a public audience of strangers, that strays perilously close to tragedy.
Anyone who has ever fancied him or herself as a writer will find these stories an eye opener. They are about Prizes not won, Readings not attended, Autographs not asked for and more awkward, red-faced and funny moments of humiliation than you could poke a stick at.
Writers featured are Patrick McCabe, Don Paterson and David Harsent.
Concludes June 20
Production
Producer: Gillian Berry
Publication
Publisher: Harper Collins
Edited by Robin Robertson
