Your cart

Close

Total AUD

Checkout

Imprint

  • Virago

A View From The Bed And Other Observations

Jenny Diski

4 Reviews

Rated 0

Prose: non-fiction, Literature: history & criticism

A wonderfully animated collection of Diski's essays from the London Review of Books, The Guardian, New Statesman and the Observer.

As a general rule I try to maintain a balanced and realistic approach to life. I'm convinced that the best place for a rabbit's foot is at the end of a rabbit's leg. And if there are fairies at the bottom of the garden, they go about their business and I go about mine. But although this approach keeps life on an even keel and prevents the stress of both over-excitement and grave disappointment, I do find that the perfectly mundane existence that I strive for and attain can occasionally seem a little flat, a bit lacking in absurdity. So from time to time, when a rattling cliche, or a good thumping banality presents itself, I'm inclined to give it a run for its money. Hand me a candle and I'll burn it at both ends, give me a cart and I'll put it before the horse.'
In her inimitable style, coupled with her sharp wit and idiosyncratic views, Diski reviews her own experiences, an array of key historical figures and pertinent topics. Ranging from 'The Sexual Life of Catherine M.' and her ponderings on the thrill of guilt, to the biblical role of water in 'Did Jesus walk on water because he couldn't swim ' this is vintage Diski.

Read More Read Less

Praise for A View From The Bed And Other Observations

  • Diski is a writer who sets off at an engaging tangent more often than not, but the eclectic nature of her reading means she has plenty to get her teeth into. She is always sharp and witty with a lavish range of cultural reference. - Daily Mail

  • She is intelligent, funny and challenging. - Independent

  • There is much to admire here: a trenchant wit and an original stance not being the least.' Scotland on Sunday - 'an intelligent and enjoyable writer'

  • HERALD

Read More Read Less

Jenny Diski

Jenny Diski is the author of eight novels and two memoirs: Skating to Antarctica and Stranger on a Train. She lives in Cambridge.

This website uses cookies. Using this website means you are okay with this but you can find out more and learn how to manage your cookie choices here.Close cookie policy overlay