Over nearly twenty years John has written an epic poem entitled ‘The Iron Bridge’ based the life times and characters his home town. At over 9000 words the book takes the reader on a journey through various periods in the town’s history. Drawing on real events as well as imagination it weaves characters and landscapes from different ages together to form a magical vision of the town’s present and its past.
John’s text is supported by internationally acclaimed local artist Mark Burrell who has painted the cover and created ten stunning illustrations to accompany John’s text.
The book was released in June 2004 with three performances by actor Nick Murray Brown, at the Ferini gallery in Lowestoft, with music, written by John, played by harpist Xenia Horne. The performances proved very popular and more were subsequently booked and are intended to continue in the future so keep an eye on the news page.
Creative workshops for community and schools, built around the book are currently being planned and are bookable.
The Iron Bridge is available from John for £11.00 (including UK shipping)
or from bookshops at £12.99.
Reviews So far...
Nick Murray Brown's performance of The Iron Bridge was phenomenal. Nick is a professional actor with many stage appearances to his name, but, he was clearly challenged and pushed to the limits with the complex detail of John's work.
He cleverly took us on a journey through time ancient settlements, the Saxons, Vikings, the Scottish girls of the fishing glory days, Second World War and modern day. But don't draw any assumptions, the clever twisting and turning of the story had you hiding quietly in the audience in case the overhead bombers heard you stir, running as fast as your terrified legs would carry you while escaping the violent raids of the approaching Vikings, and remembering buildings from days gone by where you shared your first kiss with a childhood sweetheart.
I was a wreck by the time Nick had completed his 80-minute performance. I had tensed my body so much, and lived every powerful moment I felt light-headed from holding my breath for so long. I was rendered completely speechless when I tried to tell John how much I enjoyed his masterpiece.
What ever you do, beg, borrow and steal a ticket. But make sure you go, this is a fantastically powerful piece of work that is going to reach the dizzy heights. Watch out for future performances and make sure you go, you won't be disappointed.
Lowestoft Journal and Radio Suffolk Website
To read an extract from the book, please click here, you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader
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