1) How do you organise your book shelves?
The bookshelves are all full. They are hopelessly disorganized, though in the sitting room I have a book case dedicated to my late mother-in-law’s books and another to those of my late aunt. Finding the books I need on their shelves makes me feel close to both women and their taste in fiction is very much in line with mine. Lots of Jean Rhys, Elizabeth Taylor, du Maurier and yards of lovely green-spined Viragos. All the new books that make their way in to the house live in piles up the stairs.
2) What would your superhero power be?
To sing through the night like a lark who is learning to pray.
3) What is your favourite cheese?
Babybel but mainly for the making of lips with the wax after it’s eaten.
4) You are wallpaper. What is your pattern?
An explosion of 70s orange and yellow discs
5) What was your favourite book as a child?
Joan Aiken’s A Necklace of Raindrops
6) What was the last text you sent?
To my son to confirm that I’ll collect him from the train
7) Who would play Julia and Julian in the film of your book?
I hope a couple of previously unknown actors who both go on to win Oscars for their roles.
8) Bacon VS Tofu – who wins? Why?
Bacon. I’ve never craved Tofu or heard it sizzle invitingly.
9) What colour is Tuesday?
Yellow, obviously.
10) Have you ever had a nickname?
Many: Clarence (the cross-eyed lion) was particularly unwelcome as a six-year-old with a squint.
11) What is the oldest item of clothing in your wardrobe?
My dad’s toweling T-shirt
12) Do you have a favourite pen?
Yes, but it’s a fountain pen so I am often cross with it.
13) Do you believe human beings can spontaneously combust?
As a child I got a book out of the library about it and it kept me awake for years. Wish you hadn’t reminded me.
(Oops, sorry.)
14) Have you ever written an angry letter to a magazine or paper?
No.
15) Have you ever had your fortune told?
Yes.
16) How do you put your duvet cover on?
I don’t have a duvet.
17) Who is your favourite Neighbours character?
Never seen it so I don’t know.
*Gasp*
18) What’s your favourite swear?
Hells bells and buckets of blood.
19) What sandwiches would you make for a picnic with Hilary Mantel?
I don’t want to go on a picnic with Hilary Mantel.
20) What question should I have asked you?
I am sated.
Thank you so much for taking part in Smash Lits, Polly.
I reviewed Polly’s latest novel, The Kindness, here and throughly recommend it to fans of sumptuous prose and twisty stories. All sorts of information (and gorgeous pictures) can be found at Polly’s website.
Sara Crowley 