For any poet or would-be poet the name Roger McGough is not just a well known one, but a loved and revered one too. Born in Liverpool in 1937, this spritely octogenarian is as canny, as funny, and as humble as ever.
One of the original Liverpool Beat Poets, His poetry is easy on the ear, whether in a lyrical rhyming pattern or in a more oblique and avant-garde fashion, and quite often there is a serious punchline despite the frivolity. He is very fond of lists, of finding humour and poetry in the mundane, a slight obsession with death, and of course the rhythms and undulations of 1960's music - all of which are evidenced in his poetry. His style is often referred to as "Street Poetry", but personally I find that term rather demeaning. Mostly though his poems are meant to be read aloud ("Performance Poetry"), and in the short hour in his company this evening, that is exactly what he did.
Starting with a clever and humorous voice-over introduction, McGough took us through his life, from his very early years and first memories right to the present day, and along with the poetry there were a few anecdotes thrown in for good measure too.
A self-effacing, approachable, down-to-earth and genuine human being, he has an impish sense of humour but a caring nature, again, all evidenced in his writing.
Short, succint, but practically perfect, and a must-see for anyone with a love of poetry.
Reviewer - Chris Benchley
on - 6.4.24
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