books review

Laughter and Literature

Hove Festival of Literature

Those hoping for tips about how to be a good comedy writer were left bewildered tonight. Robert Rankin, self-proclaimed writer of far-fetched fiction, began by spurning the billed discussion points and instead told anecdotes of drug trips and electric blue suits. Whilst off-topic, these were enjoyable, and who could fail to be amused by his rendition of Prodigy's 'Firestarter', backed only by an out-of-tune ukulele? Things did take a more literary turn when second author Mil Millington read extracts from his novel, but it was unfortunate that there was not much time for audience questions. However, to make up for this Rankin invited us all to the pub afterwards to carry on the discussion. That sums up this intimate, anarchic evening.

Fletch @ St Andrew's, 12 May, 6.00pm, £10.00 (£8.00), fpp 36

tw rating: 3/5

published: May-2009

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