The Gig Delusion
Andy Kind
Wilmott Books £4.95
(978-1-905691-13-5)
"THE GIG DELUSION is a novel, not an autobiography,"
says a note at the back of this book, which is described as "a
laugh out loud novel set against the backdrop of the UK comedy
circuit".
But I tend to feel that this must be partly an early
autobiography, since the young author is a comedian and mentions
fellow performers. One who appears is Paul Kerensa, who has also
published his "confessions" (Books, 12 July 2012). Indeed, both are
Christians, represented by the same agency. Andy Kind claims that
being a Christian in comedy is not so much a role as a reason for
people to avoid car-sharing. The book is peppered with such asides,
and much self-deprecation.
But readers with preconceived ideas about Christians might be
surprised by the swear words, a description of sharing a
dressing-room with strippers, or the advice on how to avoid
late-night propositioning in the toilets. "Something isn't funny
because it's clean," observes Kind, who later adds that laughter
acts as a sort of "leaf blower for the soul".
The novel opens as Kind goes to London to seek an agent. It is
the challenge to meet the all-consuming demands of the reluctant
agent which is described in some hilarious detail in these 219
pages. Those who often speak in public to a non-hostile but still
unreceptive audience that is not about to leave may find sympathy
and useful tips here.
This tale of tension, obsession, and love has a message that a
reviewer cannot divulge without giving away the ending. But it can
be said that there are several messages worth reflecting on.
Marriage requires concessions by both sides. Everyone should have a
sensible work-life balance.
Leigh Hatts is a writer and online journalist.