On Literature and Aesthetics

DescriptionIn my craft or sullen artExercised in the still nightWhen only the moon ragesAnd the lovers lie abedWith all their griefs in their arms,I labour by singing lightNot for ambition or breadOr the strut and trade of charmsOn the ivory stagesBut for the common wagesOf their most secret heart.In My Craft or Sullen Art [extract]. by Dylan Thomas.Nigel read these lines at age eleven and they became almost a mantra which would remain with him throughout his life. Sometimes the night was very dark, but he came through. This is a book about literature and ideas concerning literature. Nigel's life was careering out of control until 1988 when he began serious academic study with the Open University. It began when he was a patient in one of those rambling asylums and has continued since. He has gained two Bachelors of Art 2/1 and two Master's Degrees with Merit. He awaits the result of a third Master's Degree. Also being published by Chipmunkapublishing has made the journey meaningful.