The Python Years. Diaries 1969-1979, Volume One
- 752 pages
- 27 hours of reading
Michael Palin's bestselling diaries before, during and after Monty Python.
The Palin Diaries Series
This series offers an intimate look into the personal life and professional journey of a renowned entertainer. It chronicles his early days as a television writer, his rise to fame with an iconic comedy troupe, and his later global expeditions. These diary entries provide a unique and personal perspective on cultural history and individual experiences. Expect sharp observations, wit, and reflections on a life filled with creativity and adventure.
Recommended Reading Order
The second volume of Michael Palin’s diaries spans the 1980s, a decade marked by the loosening ties of the Pythons after their last film, Monty Python’s Meaning of Life, in 1983. During this period, writing and acting dominated Palin's life, highlighted by his role as the stuttering Ken in A Fish Called Wanda, for which he won a BAFTA for Best Supporting Actor. This volume chronicles his journey through seven films, culminating in his preparations for the transformative documentary, Around the World in 80 Days. Palin co-wrote and acted in Terry Gilliam’s Time Bandits and starred in Brazil, while also co-producing and leading in The Missionary alongside Maggie Smith. His television work included East of Ipswich, reflecting his connections to Suffolk, and he was drawn into hosting the popular Saturday Night Live in the US. Additionally, he filmed a segment for the BBC’s Great Railway Journeys and became chairman of the pressure group Transport 2000. Throughout these years, his life with Helen and their growing children remains a constant, and his joy in writing shines through as he expresses his wonder at the world of screens, both large and small.
This third volume of Michael Palin's acclaimed diaries chronicles his career shift into travel after years in film and writing. Beginning in September 1988, it captures his journey along the Adriatic as part of a modern-day adventure inspired by AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS. Despite not being the BBC's first choice for the series, its success led to heightened public demand. Throughout this dynamic period, Palin remained busy with various projects, including acting roles following the success of A FISH CALLED WANDA. His next film, AMERICAN FRIENDS, draws from his great-grandfather's diaries, and he takes on a challenging role in the drama series GBH. Additionally, he ventures into theater with THE WEEKEND, writes his first novel, HEMINGWAY'S CHAIR, and stars in FIERCE CREATURES, the sequel to WANDA. Describing himself as drawn to risk, Palin embraces opportunities, leading to two more travel series, POLE TO POLE and FULL CIRCLE, along with accompanying bestselling books. These diaries reveal a man seizing every chance while candidly addressing the doubts and challenges he faces. Anchored by his family life, this volume showcases a decade of exploration, curiosity, and adventure, offering treasures on every page for his expanding readership.