Spike Milligan
Spike Milligan: A Life of Comedy and Innovation
Full Name and Common Aliases
Spike Milligan was born Terence Alan Milligan on April 16, 1918, in Ahmednagar, India. He is commonly known by his stage name, Spike Milligan.
Birth and Death Dates
Born: April 16, 1918
Died: February 27, 2002
Nationality and Profession(s)
Milligan was an Irish comedian, writer, actor, playwright, and poet. His nationality was complex due to his birth in India to British parents; however, he considered himself Irish.
Early Life and Background
Spike Milligan's early life was marked by a sense of adventure and a love for the absurd. Born in Ahmednagar, India, he moved to England with his family at a young age. His father was an army officer, which exposed him to different cultures and ways of life. This exposure would later influence his writing style and comedic approach.
Milligan developed a passion for music and comedy early on. He attended St. Olave's Grammar School in Southwark, London, where he began to hone his writing skills. During World War II, Milligan served in the Royal Artillery, where he was stationed in North Africa and Italy. This experience would later become the basis for many of his comedic writings.
Major Accomplishments
Milligan's most significant accomplishment is probably his work on the radio comedy series "The Goon Show." He co-created, wrote, and starred in this groundbreaking program with Harry Secombe and Peter Sellers. The show revolutionized British comedy by pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable.
In addition to his work on "The Goon Show," Milligan wrote numerous books of poetry, novels, and memoirs. His most famous book is probably "Puckoon," a novel about an Irishman trying to build a bridge between Ireland and England.
Notable Works or Actions
Milligan's notable works include:
"The Goon Show": A groundbreaking radio comedy series co-created with Harry Secombe and Peter Sellers.
"Puckoon": A novel about an Irishman trying to build a bridge between Ireland and England.
"Portrait of a Man Besieged": A memoir that explores Milligan's experiences during World War II.Impact and Legacy
Spike Milligan's impact on British comedy is immeasurable. He co-created "The Goon Show," which influenced generations of comedians, writers, and actors. His innovative approach to comedy pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable, paving the way for future comedic geniuses.
Milligan's legacy extends beyond his work in comedy. He was a prolific writer who explored various genres, from poetry to memoirs. His writing style, which often blended absurdity with clever wordplay, has inspired countless writers and poets.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Spike Milligan is widely quoted or remembered for several reasons:
His innovative approach to comedy: Milligan's co-creation of "The Goon Show" revolutionized British comedy by pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable.
His prolific writing style: Milligan wrote extensively across various genres, from poetry to memoirs, leaving a lasting impact on literature and comedy.
His unique voice and perspective: Milligan's experiences during World War II gave him a distinct perspective on life, which he incorporated into his work.
In conclusion, Spike Milligan was a comedic genius who left an indelible mark on British culture. His innovative approach to comedy, prolific writing style, and unique voice have inspired generations of writers, comedians, and actors.
Quotes by Spike Milligan
Spike Milligan's insights on:
Things began to improve when I went to Rangoon. To begin with, my father was promoted, which meant he was at home more. The matriarchal society was ended, and for the first time, I went to a boys' school.
I remember lying out in my bed and looking at the vast, quiet sky. Right up above my head, there were three stars in a row, and I remember thinking, 'Well, I'll have those three stars all my life, and wherever I am, they will be. They are my stars, and they belong to me.'
We come across thirty or so hurried graves with makeshift wooden markers. 'Private Edwards, E.', a number, and that was all. Fourteen days ago he was alive, thinking feeling, hoping... If war was a game of cards, I'd say someone was cheating.
Driver Shepherd and I had been detailed to drive Lt. Budden in the Wireless Truck. We had been standing by vehicles for an hour, and nothing had happened, but it happened frequently.
I can't stand being late. I try to be professional. I try not to let people down. But people let me down. That's why I don't rely on anyone to call me. That's why I have clocks as well as people. I have to be able to call myself; it's the only way to be sure.
The night before Tilbury, the Cordon Bleu gourmet dinner turned out Cordon Brown. Six out of ten to the chef for trying and ten out of ten to us for eating it.
I had stopped going to church the moment I joined the Regiment. No more could my mother nag me into God's presence.
When I get depressed, I try to get something for the terrible sadness that comes over me and create something in terms of poetry.
It was implanted in me that I came from a different class - an elevated class. I was cushioned by servants. I don't remember doing anything for myself. I only played and went to school.