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
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
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.
ReplyDeleteWhat 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.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteLearn to meditate with the 1 Giant Mind Meditation Technique in St. Petersburg, Florida, or on Retreat in
ReplyDeleteCosta Rica.We get what it takes to fit meditation into modern life and we’re expert at teaching you well. It
is our mission to make this process as accessible as possible.Dr. Janice Powis teaches the 1 GiantMind
“Being” Meditation Technique in a “3-Day Learn to Meditate” course format.You will learn a powerful yet
simpletechnique that causes a major reduction in stress and fatigue while also rapidly expanding your self-
awareness – a catalyst for long-lasting change in your life.You will be taught the course over 3 consecutive
days, with each session lasting 90 minutes.You’ll learn a lifelong skill to tame your busy mind and culviate
a calmer, more peaceful, resilient state of being
Visit link: https://vidameditation.com/