Alan Bennett - a Marmite figure I know - on Radio 4

I think he’s brilliant and have read all his books. Slight claim to fame - his partner Rupert Thomas, was until recently editor of World of Interiors magazine. Before younger son started his Phd in London, he did a month’s work experience with Rupert.

For any Alan Bennett fans that are interested I have found a link to the eulogy I mentioned earlier in the thread.
“Cafe Anne” was a colourful and charismatic lady, she was the only woman Alan was ever attracted to.
Her cafe was as glorious and eccentric as she was, I think Alan was so delighted she ended up living next door to him with her partner and children.

www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwj-iJri__P3AhVTSsAKHZB6CvMQFnoECAUQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fclaphamyorkshire.files.wordpress.com%2F2017%2F06%2Fnewsletter_no57_february_2009.pdf&usg=AOvVaw2AEroH9I8RZ-5SDIKoZuVd

Kathy72, thank you for letting us know about Cocktail Sticks.
I am tuned into BBC Sounds thoroughly enjoying the drama.
I love Alan Bennett and must look out his other works.
It’s been a while since I read or listened to his work.

Was he not offered a knighthood but turned it down? I thought I'd heard that somewhere. If anyone deserves a knighthood it's him. He really is a national treasure.

Same here I don't know of anyone who is aware of Alan Bennet and his work who dislikes him. Another vote for the National Treasure award.

A Private Function is my Alan Bennett favourite, an hilarious genius of a piece with every single line a polished gem.

His sense of the ridiculous and ability to get under a character's skin is unsurpassed whether comedy or tragedy or, very often, both.

Another vote here for him as a National Treasure.

Another fan here, I can’t think why anyone would dislike him. To me, he’s a National Treasure.

I have “Pandemic Diaries / House Arrest”. It is extremely slender - I read it in less than an hour - but I keep dipping back in.

Chrissyoh

He has a new book out : House Arrest : Pandemic Diaries - I’m saving it for my holidays ?.

... apparently, it's a slender volume - only 64 pages!

According to The Guardian, "His writing remains as deft and seamless as ever"

Thanks for the heads-up.

He's 86 and crippled with arthritis

In November 2020 he notices that the Queen, nearly 10 years his senior, is able to walk backwards when laying a wreath at the Cenotaph. The fact that Her Majesty could probably not manage this today is a reminder of how swiftly treacherous advanced old age can be. (The Guardian)

Thanks Enid101 - I’ll give it a go anyway ?.
I’ll get back to you with a “review “ ?.

Yes, very short and some of the reviews are disappointing but I’m sure you will enjoy it

Enid101

chrissyoh I hope you’ve got a short holiday the ‘book’ is only 36 pages of text!

?? Really ?

chrissyoh I hope you’ve got a short holiday the ‘book’ is only 36 pages of text!

Thanks for the heads up. He's one of my favourites.

Not sure about the Marmite, I don't know a soul that doesn't like him.

I enjoy listening to Alan Bennet too - but then I also like marmite!

I once played a lead roll in Habeus Corpus: Muriel Wicksteed.
Hilariously funny.

He has a new book out : House Arrest : Pandemic Diaries - I’m saving it for my holidays ?.

Love Alan Bennett .

What’s not to love - a genius with words. Sat near him in Betty’s in Harrogate years ago, a tall figure.

Oh, I’m glad to hear that maybe I’m wrong that people don’t like him. My MIL doesn’t like his voice, and my next door neighbour wrinkled her nose up when I mentioned this play!

I love him too! Thanks for the heads up

I really like his work. I found myself sitting next to him on the Underground once. I was desperate to talk to him but was overcome with shyness. I shall listen to this recommendation. Thank you.

I thought everybody loved Alan Bennett. The cocktail sticks story is so touching and sad. I've only read it but I hear his voice as I read his books.

Another Alan Bennett fan here!

I love him too. I wouldn’t call him a marmite figure, more of a national treasure.