Summoned By Bells A Life In Verse cover art

Summoned By Bells A Life In Verse

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About this listen

 'For myself/ I knew as soon as I could read and write/ That I must be a poet. Even today,/ When all the way from Cambridge comes a wind/ To blow the lamps out every time they're lit/ I know that I must light mine up again.' From his earliest boyhood memories of Highgate and Archibald, his old stuffed bear, through to his undergraduate years at Oxford and his early career, John Betjeman’s unique narrative style poignantly describes the pains and pleasures of growing up. In the much-loved tones of Sir John himself, this magnificent autobiography in verse captures the voice of the late Poet Laureate. ‘Summoned by Bells can hardly help being a landmark... one seems to be living his childhood and boyhood with him’ - Stephen Spender.©2008 BBC Audiobooks Ltd; (P)2008 BBC Audiobooks Ltd Art & Literature Artists, Architects & Photographers Authors European Literary History & Criticism Poetry World Literature
All stars
Most relevant
Probably not for younger generations. I am racing up to 80, 2y one month to go! Must catch up with today's poetry!

Memories of years even before my time!

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Hearing Betjemans voice was a treat. He had a great talent but seemed to just muddle through

The descriptive language

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What a treat to hear John Betjeman reading his verse early autobiography summoned by bells (no 'the' as per the Audible name) A gentle enjoyable relaxing listen which made me smile.

A beautiful listen

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Very special. Wonderfully constructed and read.
As if Betjeman is back with us. A treat that can be revised time-over.

Incomperable

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