Priestley profile

Press, Volume CX, Issue 32460, 21 November 1970, Page 4

Priestley profile

J. B. Priestley has been described as the most widelyknown of all English writers. He makes one of his rare television appearances in the “Omnibus” series, in which he talks to Robert Robinson. It has been bought by the N.Z.B.C.

The setting is the study of his home near Stratford-on-Avon and this conversation with his friend, Robert Robinson, covers a wide and varied ilist of topics, from literature and drama to the ideals of !the young, and from personal tastes in music to the merits —and otherwise—of television and the 'press. “J.8.,’

undoubtedly, Is In cracking form:

On himself: “I don’t think I have any genius; I think I have a hell of a lot of talent.” On drama: “I think every play should be well made. To attack wellmade plays is like attacking well - made tables. It’s just silly.” On the critics: “The trouble is they’ve not been in the kitchen, where the things are cooked.”

On the press: “You might try comparing the popular paper of to-day with one of 50 years ago. I’m sure you’ll find the one of 50 years ago is much more intelligent.” On the young: "There are many younger readers who think I’m an old fuddy-duddy.” On the old: “I do get letters from older readers saying I’m a dirty old scoundrel now and not like the man I used to be.”