Another fan here (as you know, Ann) ... and I think Mark is one too. I saw him live several times, mostly over here but a couple of times in London too. Yes, Joe, I remember him always being very wry and funny about encores (being dragged back on to stage as though they'd just caught up with him at the bus stop saying "come back, they want some more!")
I agree about some of the lyrics having aged badly ... not "Sister Josephine", but certainly "The Bantam Cock" (that last verse, apart from anything else, would definitely have to go). But I agree with you, Ann about the tenderness ... I think of "Lah-di-Dah" and "To Do With You", besides the ones you mention.
But do I still find him funny? Of course I do. The moment in "On Again!" when the Blessed Virgin herself appears is sublime.
I will definitely check the book out.
|