Last Night I Married the Audience by Simma: A Wry Gaze at Life from Centre Stage

Simma’s poetry collection, Last Night I Married the Audience, arrives with a compelling honesty, offering a refreshingly candid glimpse into the performer’s soul and the everyday absurdities of human connection. Far from a mere backstage pass, this is an unflinching and often hilarious exploration of the dynamic between artist and observer, framed by the familiar landscapes of British life, particularly its northern heartlands.

What truly elevates Simma’s work is his keen observational wit. From the existential dread of a musician lugging gear in "Set Up Train"—a relatable lament for anyone who's ever wrestled with equipment—to the poignant dance of vulnerability and ego in the titular piece, the poems are rich with authentic, tangible detail. He possesses a remarkable knack for finding the profound in the mundane, turning everyday encounters with "drunken philosopher[s]" and the soul-crushing bureaucracy of job centre visits into incisive, sometimes melancholic, meditations on identity and purpose.

The collection deftly navigates themes of connection and alienation, the desire for acceptance versus the urge to speak one's truth. Simma's voice is distinct; conversational, yet capable of sharp turns into deeper emotional territory. It's a testament to his craft that even a seemingly simple observation can resonate with universal experience. This collection is a genuine treat for anyone who appreciates poetry that speaks directly, with warmth, humour, and a quiet, resonant truth that lingers long after the final line.

The North Magazine 2004