Spike: An Intimate Memoir

by Norma Farnes

The complete memoirs of a man of many talents and faces – the late, great Spike Milligan – affectionately recounted by his close friend and agent for 35 years, Norma Farnes.


'What's he really like?' Wherever I went and was introduced as Spike Milligan's manager I waited for the inevitable question. In not far short of thirty-six years it never altered. It wasn't one that could be answered in a few words so I generally made do with 'Interesting' or 'don't ask'…


After chancing on an advertisement for a secretarial position, Norma Farnes found herself initiated into the world of Number Nine Orme Court where Spike and some of post-war's other greatest comedy writers like Eric Sykes, Johnny Speight, Ray Galton and Alan Simpson had formed a writers' cooperative. Soon promoted to be his manager, Norma was working for a man with a reputation for being brilliant and difficult in equal measure.


In this affectionate yet true account, Norma Farnes looks at the whole of Spike's life from his childhood and extraordinary family in India, his ongoing battle with his restless mind, his numerous affairs and his heartening struggles with many varied causes. She gives a mass of wonderful anecdotes and revealing insights into Spike and his circle, including, of course, his often fraught but deep friendship with Peter Sellers.


In Spike, Norma Farnes has written a moving portrait of her greatest friend. Above all, Spike's fascinating, very human character is brought to life on every page.

Genres: Biography, Humor, Nonfiction

400 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Jonkers Jonkers · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting insight into Spike Milligan. I have previously read the Anthony Clare book 'Depression and How to Survive' which was a fascinating book based mainly on the depression as an illness. This book was more of an account of what it was like working with Spike. It is quite touching that Norma Barnes stuck with him through all the ups and downs and has some interesting anecdotes. I personally felt that the book could have stopped earlier as it seemed to become a bit repetitive towards the end. Well worth a read though.

[Amateur · Rating 3 out of 5]

Norma Farnes is a very hard-working, dedicated individual who put up with the deeply troubled writer and performer Spike Milligan for many years, as secretary, manager, agent, and part-time therapist. She's not a professional writer, so this memoir lacks something in polish, but she clearly makes up for that with her passion, loyalty, and sincerity. She gives us a heartfelt, often funny, often sad portrait of the later years of a great comic genius.

[Hugh Collings · Rating 5 out of 5]

Big fan of Spike and this book is a brilliant insight into the genius and tortured soul behind the man. Wonderfully written by the lady who knew him best ( and has also sadly just passed away). Don't think it's too much of a spoiler to let slip that he doesn't make it to the end...😔

[Bob · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding

[Andrew Mccann · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful book about The man who was Spike Milligan .

Essential if you are a fan of one of the greats .

Had me laughing and in tears simultaneously.

Brilliant .

[Tom Ford · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the few books I've read several times and could do so again. A warts and all account of life working for a true comic genius. I think it appeals to me because I can see some of my own behavior in my darkest hours in that of spike, I've often recommended the book to those suffering from or close to somebody, who suffers depressive phases.

[Neil Glaze · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazing insight into Norma and Spike's life, thoroughly enjoyed this view from someone that clearly supported and loved Spike.