Is Poetry a Sport?

by NigelWood (Author)

• Used

  Paperback
  2011

  $6.09

  The story of a modern luxury. Self-indulgent. Trivial. What we are. Is Poetry A Sport? is written in a uniquely engaging way, combining the usual lorry load of prose with several handfuls of poems (don't worry they're mostly very short). Read it. Have a think about life. Then maybe do something about yours. Stick or twist. But more important, make sure you appreciate it. Tom Gardner's 42. He hasn't yet worked out what he really wants to do when he grows up. Even with a successful career and wonderful marriage, he's still not at all sure what he's supposed to be doing. Yet all he wants to know is how to live an enjoyable, worthwhile life. Grab his chance. Be happy. It can't be that hard. Somewhat ironically - given his disdain for all things about the game - by creating a football advertising campaign he discovers poetry. And comes to believe it may be the starting point for something that will genuinely satisfy him - the missing piece of his life. Inspired by the work of Roger McGough, Tom hits a hot streak. He gets published in national newspapers, reads his work to live audiences, appears on national radio with his hero and eventually gives up his job to pursue his dream. He's feted as the football poet - writes a manifesto - has it all in his hands. But things are never that straightforward. He flies close to the sun, leans on promises and ultimately discovers the truth about his good fortune. Tom begins to appreciate how happy he's been and how lucky he is. But is it too little too late? What's left for him, now he may finally be growing up?