A wonderful YouTube discovery from Robin Sloan’s newsletter—a playlist of a TV series, filmed at the RSC, from the early 80s called Playing Shakespeare. Hosted by John Barton, a long time director and teacher at the RSC. Also featuring many future stars like Judi Dench, Ian McKelln, Patrick Stewart, & Ben Kingsley!
Every month a local bookstore offers 30% off one of the sections in the store. Last month it was poetry’s turn. And so l have a 2 volume set of English Romantic Poetry in my possession. The covers are kinda nice too.
I’m not that familiar with David Hockney’s work or life, although I’ve certainly heard of him. I’ve seen some of his drawings. Particularly his iPad drawings when they were a news item early on in lockdown. This book is not a biography. It does jump around and talk a bit about different periods of the artist’s life but mainly it’s a snapshot of the his life leading up to and during lockdown when he was ensconced in a rural patch of Normandy. It’s an inspiring and thought provoking read full of images of his own work and that of other artists who’ve inspired him.
Finished reading: Spring Cannot Be Cancelled: David Hockney in Normandy by Martin Gayford 📚
My current employment contract ends May 19th, with no new contract on the horizon. The release date for the new Legend of Zelda game is May 12th. This is either incredibly good or incredibly bad timing.
I’m excited about Apple’s new classical music app. I hope they make an ipad version because this is just stupid.
Currently reading: A Woman’s Story by Annie Ernaux 📚
For a French lit bookclub! Discussion in April.