Catherine Howe Bücher

Seit langem gilt Francis Bacon (1909 –1992) als einer der großen Künstler der Moderne. Seine Gemälde schreiender Päpste und verstümmelter, entstellter Figuren lassen sich in ihrer Krassheit als gültiger Ausdruck des 20. Jahrhunderts interpretieren. Legendär ist Bacons exzentrisches, exzessives Leben – „Ich mag gerade den Bodensatz; den Bodensatz habe ich am liebsten", sagte er einmal –, das neben dem Werk Gegenstand zahlreicher Gespräche war, die der Autor Michael Peppiatt während dreier Jahrzehnte mit dem Künstler führte. Zusammen mit bislang unbekannten Fakten, unveröffentlichten Dokumenten und eindringlichen Analysen zentraler Gemälde bilden diese offenen Gespräche den Grundstock des vorliegenden Textes.

Set against the backdrop of industrial unrest in 1842 Britain, the narrative focuses on Halifax, a town deeply involved in the widespread strike that swept across England. The community's strong opposition to the New Poor Law and advocacy for a ten-hour working day highlight their commitment to workers' rights. Notably, the character 'Fat Peter' Bussey, a publican from Bradford, played a significant role in the Chartist movement by bringing a petition with thousands of signatures from Halifax to the first Chartist Convention, emphasizing the town's activism and solidarity.

Set against the backdrop of the Chartist riots of 1848, the narrative provides a fresh perspective on these historical events. Catherine Howe offers a straightforward and detailed account, moving beyond traditional debates to present a more open-minded exploration of the circumstances surrounding the riots. Her storytelling approach invites readers to engage with the material in a new way, shedding light on the complexities of the period.

The narrative explores the rich history of a significant London building, highlighting its transformation into The Theatre Girls Club of Soho. This establishment provided young women with a safe haven amidst the bustling city, fostering a sense of community and support. The book delves into the experiences of the women who sought refuge there, emphasizing themes of empowerment and resilience in a changing urban landscape.