I missed Radio 4’s highly acclaimed Passion Play last weekend, a tale of middle-aged boredom and and unmet desires, where flattery and attraction leads to a flurry of of lies and exhilarating thrills, to love, as well as the inevitable broken heart, I imagine.
The play is based on James and Eleanor who are happily married, or so they think. Kate, the young widow of one of their oldest friends, makes it clear to James that she finds him very attractive. It is an offer he finds very difficult to resist.
It reminded me of a gullible friend who once found herself in a similar situation and ended up being told by her lover with brutal frankness: “You are obviously no good at having an illicit affair”, when she became upset. I wonder if she heard it, and what she thought of it.
If you want to hear the play, then this is the link. But it is only active up until Friday.
Hi, Just wondered is there a book of this play? I would much rather read than listen.
Kate, I’m sorry, I don’t know, but it sounds like it should be.
Middle-age sucks.
It’s like the second week of a holiday – time begins to fly by and one realises that it’s too late to book the boat trip.
I have not been able to figure out how to listen to these past programs. All I seem to be able to get is the current program. Grrr.
jmb, if you read the page, it will take you to the link. I’m not sure if I will have a chance to listen to it before Friday, I will see if I can save it on my hard disc.
I’ve just noticed that past plays are linked to on the right hand side of the page, so it should still be available after the weekend.
What a cruel comment from your friend’s lover. I will try to listen to the play online.