Fools' Gold: The Voyage of a Ship of Fools Seeking Gold - A Mock-Heroic Poem on Brexit and English Exceptionalism

In his sequel to "Fools Paradise," Nicholas Hagger examines the beginning of Boris Johnson's premiership, the promises that won him the 2019 General Election, and his removal of the UK from the EU, only to be engulfed by the Covid pandemic. Hagger describes the catastrophic national events in heroic blank verse, questioning whether the promises will turn out to be worthless iron pyrites or a new Golden Age.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 512 pages
Publication date: 02 December 2022
Publisher: John Hunt Publishing

In his satirical poem "Fools Paradise," Nicholas Hagger portrays the United Kingdom's attempt to leave the European Union under Prime Minister Theresa May as a metaphorical journey akin to Sebastian Brant's 1494 Ship of Fools, set sail for the nonexistent paradise of Narragonia. Written in rhymed heroic couplets, reminiscent of the works of Dryden and Pope, Hagger's poem humorously captures the political chaos surrounding the most significant decision in the UK since World War II.

In his sequel, "Fools Gold," Hagger delves into the beginnings of Boris Johnson's premiership, the promises that secured his 2019 General Election victory with an 80-seat majority, and his decision to remove the UK from the EU. However, his plans are abruptly halted by the devastating COVID-19 pandemic, which has wreaked havoc on the UK economy. Hagger vividly describes the catastrophic national events in heroic blank verse, perfectly capturing the growing sense of darkness and uncertainty. The UK public has been promised a new Golden Age, a time of abundance, but the question remains whether these promises will materialize into prosperity for all, or if they will turn out to be mere worthless iron pyrites, akin to fools' gold.

This poetic exploration of Brexit and its aftermath offers a thought-provoking reflection on the political landscape and the challenges facing the UK as it navigates its way through a period of immense change and uncertainty. Hagger's skillful use of language and imagery creates a vivid and compelling narrative that will resonate with readers for years to come.

Dimension: 230 x 150 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789045871