SIMON ARMITAGE - Reddish Light Arches
Summary
Poet Laureate Simon Armitage joins the Hanley brothers on the Oh! Brother podcast to discuss their shared love for The Fall and Mark E. Smith. The conversation covers Armitage’s early discovery of the band, his brief encounters with Smith, and the distinct differences between poetry and song lyrics. Armitage also shares a poignant poem he wrote following Smith’s death and reflects on his role as Poet Laureate, including his unique payment in sherry.
Topics discussed
Introduction and welcome of the Hanley Brothers
Introduction of guest Simon Armitage
First encounters with The Fall and Futurama festival
Memories of live gigs and Mark E. Smith's lyrics
Discussion on poetry vs song lyrics and rhyme
Analysis of Mark E. Smith's lyrical style and improvisation
Simon Armitage's personal encounters with Mark E. Smith
Recollections of punk era venues and audience behavior
The Fall's longevity and the band's breakup
Mark E. Smith's final years and health issues
Reflections on Mark E. Smith's death and legacy
Reading of Simon Armitage's poem about Mark E. Smith
The role and responsibilities of the Poet Laureate
Writing about national events and self-reference in art
Debate on the meaning of 'Noel's Chemical Effluence'
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