The world according to Kirkey
The 4th of July general election heralded a true Monty Python tenet: and now for something completely different. But as a former Tory voter, member of the Conservative party, and borough councillor, I still had some unfinished business. I was exhausted – relieved, yet perplexed. Pinching an alleged descriptor from the former Home Secretary, James … Read more
According to The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy the answer to the ultimate question of life, the universe, and everything is simply 42. Succinct and certain. And purposely bewildering, since life is so massive how can anyone ever encapsulate its meaning? Nevertheless, there are moments of pure obscurity and chance that capture the spirit of … Read more
The Rule of Three is a writing technique that suggests listing three words, phrases, sentences, images, or ideas in succession to accentuate an idea. Examples include the stirring salute, “Blood, sweat and tears,” and Prime Minister Tony Blair’s oratory, “Our priorities are education, education, education.” The domestic speedway scene may seem somewhat divorced from this … Read more
My opening question is purposely direct and intended to rile you, since this topic can only be addressed with passion: how do you plead to the charge of endorsing intolerance? As you ponder your response, I will examine a facet of present day national shame. Convictions continue to be handed down by judges across the … Read more
Division, disruption, and derision are the cruel consequences of right-wing ideology. In this space difference is framed as dangerous and contrived tribal tensions are sustained by agent provocateurs who frequently occupy positions of power. Currently, our own nation is plagued with this condition where prejudice is propelled to the pinnacle of public discourse. Nonetheless, disagreement … Read more
From on top of the world to dashed Olympic dreams with velocity and veg: learning from success and setback. Wisdom is defined as the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment. Experience is underpinned by duration and the usual embodiment of this human trait is the quintessential elder, often with wizened features. Perhaps the … Read more
Apparently the measurement of a successful author is the swift launch of a follow up book. I’m proud to announce that “Big Bald Ian” has proved an instant hit with Darcie! © Ian Kirke @ianjkirke Title photograph reproduced by kind permission of Emma Ellis.
Sliding Through Life – The autobiography of Scott Nicholls written by Ian Kirke. The big launch day at the British Speedway Grand Prix, Principality Stadium, Cardiff, fan zone on Saturday 17th August 2024. Order here. © Ian Kirke 2024 @ianjkirke All non-credited imagery reproduced by kind permission of Emma Ellis.
I was once small. A little person, and consequently everything and the majority of people – save my younger sister – were bigger than me. When I started to develop reasoning – perhaps around the age of five – I concluded that being small had many distinct disadvantages. For instance, I had to go to … Read more
