Description

Now and Then Book of poems by Leigh Lawson SIGNED BY THE AUTHOR

Paperback Book 130 pages

Director and screenwriter Billy Wilder said, on his 92nd birthday, “I think I wasted my eighties.” Motivated by Wilder’s disclosure as he approached his own eighth decade, actor, director and writer Leigh Lawson embarked on a quest to assemble some of his previously unpublished poems, written during an astonishing 60-year career. This captivating first collection is accompanied by a background of fascinating memories, intriguing stories, and anecdotes from around the time of each poem’s appearance. Sometimes very funny, sometimes alarmingly moving, Now and Then is the extraordinary journey of a life from poverty and abuse to achievement and fulfilment, throughout which poetry has played a major role. Those who were lucky enough to see him on stage at our event last year in Monmouth will appreciate the power of his story telling skills, his humour, and his understanding of the important things in life.

Leigh Lawson was born in 1943 and trained at RADA. He played leading roles at the RSC and National Theatre, in the West End and on Broadway. In the theatre he worked with directors including Peter Hall, Adrian Noble, Peter Gill, Michael Rudman, and Sean Mathias. He has played principal roles in over 20 feature films, including Casanova, Brother Sun Sister Moon, Love Among the Ruins, Madame Sousatzka, The Devil’s Advocate, Being Julia and Tess. His many television appearances include the lead role in the series Travelling Man, recently shown on Talking Pictures TV. He played a man who is searching for his lost son, after spending time in prison. The series was written by Roger Marshall, co-creator of the series Public Eye; and there are parallels between the character played by Lawson and Frank Marker. He also starred in Kinsey and Stick with Me, Kid, plus television shows, films and mini-series in both England and America. He has directed plays in the UK and the USA. Leigh lives in London with his wife, actress and model Twiggy. They have two children.

“A gem of a book; his love of life shines strong and the accompanying anecdotes and memories all reveal a life lived to the full with both humour and deep emotion.” Caroline Hutton, journalist

“Beautiful poems that will lift your spirits and make you laugh and cry and think. Funny, touching, original, thought-provoking.” Gyles Brandreth, writer & broadcaster

“A beguiling collection with a huge heart: there really is something for everyone here.” Kitty Aldridge, author

“I love this book. Leigh Lawson illustrates each poem with great stories.” Allie Esiri, poet