| 05 |
As part of your research for Second Skin you went to live in a flat-share in Camden Town. How did you find that? |
"Well, it was certainly an extraordinary contrast. Here in Surbiton I lead an isolated writer’s life, whereas there I was never alone. I found it very exhilarating that there was always somebody to talk to at almost any hour of the day. On the down side, there was incredible noise - people would crash in late at night, or practise the guitar through thin walls. It was quite funny in a way because I was totally out of sync with them. I'm a very early riser and often get up at half past five, even at weekends, so sometimes I'd be getting up when they were going to bed. And then I'd be yawning at night-time and trying valiantly to stay awake when they dragged me off to some pub or club or gig. "But I do think it's important for the generations
to mix. It makes for more tolerance and compassion. It was fascinating for me to talk to
people young enough to be my children, and to see what their problems are and how they
view society, or sex or marriage, or whatever. And a lot of it I incorporated in the
book." |
