Terry Pratchett In His Own Words

By: Terry Pratchett

Narrated by: Terry Pratchett

Sir Terry Pratchett was a much-loved writer who gained international fame for his Discworld fantasy series. In this recording we hear - in his own words - about science-fantasy and comedy writing. He discusses his fans and followers, how he enjoys writing and the importance of the Discworld characters. We hear his thoughts on fame and isolation, his attitude to money, and about his reaction to diagnosis with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. He also discusses his inspirations and the business of being a writer, and talks openly about making his documentary on assisted death for television.

The interviews included are: Bookshelf, BBC Radio 4 (first broadcast 24 January 1991, featuring Nigel Ford); Profile, BBC Radio 4 (first broadcast 4 March 1992, featuring Michael Rosen); Kaleidoscope, BBC Radio 4 (first broadcast 24 November 1995, featuring Brian Sibley); Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4 (first broadcast 9 February 1997, featuring Sue Lawley); The Big Question, BBC television (first broadcast 1 February 1998, featuring Mark Lawson); Open Book, BBC Radio 4 (first broadcast 29 April 2001, featuring Charlie Lee-Potter); Open Book, BBC Radio 4 (first broadcast 28 September 2003, featuring Mariella Frostrup); On the Ropes, BBC Radio 4 (first broadcast 20 May 2008, featuring John Humphrys); Front Row, BBC Radio 4 (first broadcast 1 September 2008, featuring Mark Lawson); Front Row, BBC Radio 4 (first broadcast 18 October 2011, featuring Mark Lawson).

Due to the age and nature of this archive material, the sound quality may vary.

©2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

The most wonderful of men.

I’ve just listened to Terry’s words a second time today and I was deeply moved on both occasions. In referencing the old question “if you could attend a dinner party and have any 12 people from history there, which 12 people would you choose?” Sir Terry would certainly be there for me. Thank you for compiling this wonderful collection of interviews. I would say, though that there was one interviewer who was incessant in trying to drag Terry down into the darkness, but ultimately, Terry strode forth unflappable with his golden light undimmed turning a dark negative into a glowing positive with patience and love.