John Drinkwater’s life in Highgate

Monday 29th March 2021
7.30 pm
An online Zoom event

A talk by his granddaughter Dr Susannah Self.

John Drinkwater (1882-1937), the poet and dramatist, lived at 9 The Grove in Highgate from 1930 to 1934. Geographically situating himself amidst local literati such as Samuel Taylor Coleridge and J.B. Priestley curiously resonated with his life’s experience. In 1919 Drinkwater’s play, Abraham Lincoln had played for a year in London’s West End and toured to USA, he was a superstar. However by the time he reached Highgate in the thirties, his flamboyant persona hid the darker truth of ailing health and crumbling finances. His situation in many respects mirrored that of Coleridge. Dr Self presents her unique collection of historical photos and family stories to illuminate the life of this much loved ‘Georgian’ poet. 

With readings by Ruth Hazeldine.

To book click here. You will be asked to make a small donation.