An evening of conversation at Lambeth Palace

S J Parris in conversation with Tracy Borman at Lambeth Palace Library

Tracy and Stephanie (aka S J Parris) deep in conversation

I was invited to take photographs of this event (Wednesday 19th April) and was so engrossed in what was being discussed that I almost forgot to keep pressing the shutter! Like listening to a private conversation between a fiction and non-fiction writer, both equally well versed in their chosen subject of the Tudors, we heard about the complete lack of privacy experienced by monarchs (Henry VIII had a servant who  recorded all of his masters time on the "close stool" with diligence and some gusto) and about why the Tudors continue to exert such fascination for us all (possibly because we have so much preserved, recorded source material to keep writers busy, possibly because they were the first dynasty to have relatively life-like portraits painted of them).

During questions from the floor, we also heard which actor's portrayals of Queen Elizabeth I Tracy and Steph most enjoy. Tracy was quick to mention Miranda Richardson from Blackadder as someone who had perfectly captured Elizabeth's true character (!), but they both acknowledged Judi Dench (Shakespeare in Love) and Helen Mirren.

Steph and Tracy looking at some of the books and papers from 1583

The event was generously hosted by Lambeth Palace Library, who had put together a display of books from the time of Parris' novel including works by John Dee. Lambeth Palace made a perfect backdrop to the evening, and the Director of Libraries and Archives, Declan Kelly, made an entertaining and informative host.


Really looking forward to next week's events.

Cityread founder, Andy Ryan with S J Parris and Tracy Borman