" I am cut to the brains

July 13, 2019

The Rot of Corruption

 What is the best way to root out endemic, massive corruption. Is there any way? 

https://foreignpolicy.com/2019/07/12/africa-everyday-corruption-bribes-police-healthcare-education-identification/

June 11, 2019

Director’s Notes – Episode 2 of the film King Lear



Edmund Gloucester

            Failing to secure his fortune on the road, Edmund intends to steal his brother's inheritance and his father's authority, killing both if necessary. 

            Shakespeare presents problems in performing this scene.  In general, it needs editing, especially for Gloucester.  The point is made and made and made.  Edmund’s speech is too pat.  Everything in the scene is so convenient, so set-up.  Edmund finishes his speech just before Gloucester’s entrance.  Edgar enters after Edmund’s next long speech.

            The scene rarely works because Edmund is so certain of succeeding.  There is no sense of what is at stake here.  First, of course, is Edmund’s entire future-- either as the heir apparent or a wanderer with no prospects.  Second, we never get the sense that Edmund is putting his very life on the line.  If the scheme fails, if Gloucester doesn’t believe it, or insists on seeking Edgar out, or if Edgar is determined to seek out Gloucester, Edmund’s life is worth nil and he would have to abscond immediately – a pursued criminal.  Events must not unfold miraculously one after another.  Edmund must make things happen, but he assumes nothing.  He can’t possibly be certain how Gloucester, and then Edgar, will react.  Edgar finally flees in terror and disarray, but Edmund must sweat and earn Edgar’s flight.

May 29, 2019

Anthony Ray Hinton and The Sun Does Shine

This book is very difficult to read.   It is enraging, horrific, deeply depressing.  And yet, without having read it, I would have missed meeting this extraordinary individual.  So read it.  Be infuriated.  And get to know Anthony Ray Hinton.  And support the Equal Justice Initiative.

Image result for the sun does shine




May 28, 2019

Driving Finish

A painting by my brother, the equine artist Robert Barnete, currently on display at Redmond Fine Art.

Driving Finish

May 20, 2019

Literary Rights

I'm pleased to announce that the Aura-Pont agency is handling the European rights for my work.  


Currently available: Still Life with Booze
For other titles visit http://www.alexanderbarnett.com/writingcredits.html