Friday 24 October 2014

New Book Released : A&E


Published by The Bluecoat Press: available via Amazon & Waterstones


Pickled. Soused. Mullered. Blotto. Hog-whimpering. Pie-eyed.  Tired and emotional; downwind of a few. The presence of so many words and phrases in the English language, to describe a state of inebriation, surely says something about the English themselves: this is a nation that seeks the comfort of oblivion - towards the bottom of a bottle.

But why do the English tipple until they fall over? Is it simply the weather, so wearyingly unpredictable? Is it to overcome the awkwardness inherent in a half-denied class system? Is it just because the English are more culturally advanced, and have realised there is no cure for the human condition but nice-tasting painkillers?

All these possibilities are explored in Peter Dench’s witty, clever, poignant, challenging, sometimes dazzling, sometimes affecting photo-diary of Anglo-Celtic drunkenness. The result is a unique and compelling visual history, full of photography that bears a striking resemblance to the drinking it depicts: at best it is perfectly intoxicating. Sean Thomas

A & E: Alcohol and England
Photographer Peter Dench
ISBN: 9781908457233
Format: Hardback (270x290mm)156pp
RP: £19.99

The Bluecoat Press will be hosting a very English triple book launch at The Photographers' Gallery in London UK on the 13th November 2014 - details here


4 comments:

  1. If you love social observation at it's best I thoroughly recommend this book. By turn of page it will make you laugh, wince, stare opened mouthed and, occasionally, recognize yourself staring back. Mr Dench has a wonderful eye and this is a great book to share a glass (or three) with a few friends.

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  2. What a fascinating and funny observation of our attitude to alcohol - Dench has done it again with grasping the seediness and it's impact on our society - rich colours and intimate compositions you feel you are there and can smell, taste the booze.

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