John Richardson

Durante más de una década, John Richardson mantuvo una estrecha amistad con Pablo Picasso. Partiendo de esa relación, de sus propios diarios, de la colaboración de la viuda del artista, Jacqueline, y de un acceso sin precedentes al estudio y los papeles del creador de Les demoiselles dAvignon ha podido llegar a un profundo conocimiento de la vida y de la obra de esta figura capital del siglo xx. En este volumen, primero de los cuatro que completaran la biografia e ilustrado con mas de 700 fotografias, muchas de ellas ineditas, Richardson estudia la juventud de Picasso: su adolescencia en La Coruña y Madrid, su pasion por Barcelona y sus contactos con el modernismo catalan, asi como sus años de formacion en Paris y su compleja relacion con Apollinaire, Max Jacob y Gertrude Stein durante los periodos azul y rosa. Picasso. Una biografia es el resultado de una exhaustiva investigacion unida al talento narrativo que caracteriza al autor. En resumen, una biografia destinada a convertirse en un clasico.

In "Hardscrabble," John Richardson intricately weaves a narrative that dives deep into the complexities of rural life and the struggles faced by its inhabitants. Employing a lyrical yet unflinching literary style, Richardson captures the raw essence of human emotions against the backdrop of a post-industrial landscape. The book is rich with vivid imagery and sharp characterizations, inviting readers to reflect on themes of resilience, identity, and the often harsh realities of existence. It situates itself within the tradition of American regionalism, echoing the works of predecessors like Sherwood Anderson, while crafting a unique voice that resonates with contemporary concerns. John Richardson, a seasoned writer hailing from the very heart of the landscapes he depicts, draws upon his personal experiences and deep understanding of small-town America to infuse authentic voice into his storytelling. Having spent years observing the socio-economic transformations within these communities, Richardsons insights are both poignant and unsettling, illuminating the nuances of everyday struggles through an empathetic lens. His previous works have garnered critical acclaim for their profound exploration of human relationships and societal dynamics. "Hardscrabble" is a must-read for anyone captivated by the complexities of the human experience. The rich prose invites readers to immerse themselves in the charactersAo lives and struggles, offering a powerful commentary on resilience and adaptation. This book will resonate deeply with those who appreciate literature that challenges them to reflect on their own narratives while providing an evocative portrayal of the American spirit.

In "Wacousta," John Richardson weaves a compelling narrative that intricately explorers themes of identity, colonization, and conflict within the 18th-century Canadian wilderness. Set against the backdrop of the War of 1812, the novel fuses gothic elements with historical fiction, creating a rich tapestry that highlights the tensions between Indigenous cultures and European settlers. Richardson employs evocative prose and vivid imagery to create an atmospheric exploration of the human condition amidst the struggle for land and power, while also delving into the psychological complexities of its characters, making it a significant piece in the canon of Canadian literature. John Richardson, a contemporary of Sir Charles Monck and a fervent supporter of the Canadian nationalism movement, drew upon his experiences as a soldier and his firsthand insights into Indigenous communities to inform his writing. Born in Britain and later relocating to Canada, Richardson was influenced by the sociopolitical dynamics of his time, offering him a unique perspective that he skillfully channels into "Wacousta." His deep affinity for the Canadian landscape and its diverse cultures undoubtedly inspired his narrative, making it a poignant reflection on identity and belonging. This novel is highly recommended for readers interested in early Canadian literature, as it serves not only as a historical document but also as a prescient commentary on the enduring issues of cultural conflict and national identity. "Wacousta" offers a profound and engaging reading experience that resonates with contemporary themes, urging readers to reflect on the complexities of human nature and society.

Durante más de una década, John Richardson mantuvo una estrecha amistad con Pablo Picasso. Partiendo de esa relación, de sus propios diarios, de la colaboración de la viuda del artista, Jacqueline, y de un acceso sin precedentes al estudio y los papeles del creador de Les demoiselles dAvignon, ha podido llegar a conocer en profundidad a esta figura capital del siglo xx. En este volumen, el segundo de los cuatro que completaran la biografia e ilustrado con centenares de fotografias, Richardson recrea la vida y la obra del artista durante la crucial decada de 1907-1917, un periodo en el cual Picasso y Georges Braque inventaron el cubismo. Ademas de retratar a Picasso como un revolucionario decidido a hacerse con la corona baudeleriana de pintor de la vida moderna, Richardson analiza la vertiente mas intima de la vida del artista, su ruptura con Fernande Olivier, sus relaciones con Eva Gouel e Irene Lagut, su amistad con Braque y Apollinaire, sus contactos con pintores, escritores, marchantes y mecenas. Una constante interconexion entre las creaciones artisticas y los datos biograficos, y una brillante contextualizacion en el efervescente medio cultural de los años anteriores a la Primera Guerra Mundial, permiten a Richardson culminar una biografia destinada a convertirse en un clasico.

It made for an easy read and a lot of chuckling. If you didnt have respect for physical special effects in films before, you will now. - G. F. Willmetts, SFcrowsnestthe perfect blend of autobiography and behind-the-scenes storytelling. Making Movie Magic is a magic movie-making book. - Brian James Smith, From Sweden With LoveJohn Richardson is an Oscar-winning special effects supervisor and designer, who has been involved in over 100 movies, including nine James Bond adventures, all eight Harry Potter films, Aliens, Superman, A Bridge Too Far, Straw Dogs, The Omen, Cliffhanger, Far and Away, Willow . . . and many, many more.In creating the magic that flows through these films by creating huge explosions, beheading people, producing futuristic gadgets, making a man fly or breathing life into creatures that amaze and haunt us Richardson has come to hold a unique place in cinema history.The son of pioneering FX technician Cliff Richardson, he learned his trade at the feet of a master of the craft.With over five decades of adventures under his belt, and a vast photographic collection of unseen pictures, Richardson now lifts the lid on his exciting and fascinating career of making movie magic.

Wacousta is a historical novel about the Pontiac Conspiracy, a war launched in 1763 by a loose confederation of Native Americans dissatisfied with British rule in the Great Lakes region. Warriors from numerous nations joined in an effort to drive British soldiers and settlers out of the region. The war is named after Odawa leader Pontiac, the most prominent of many Indigenous leaders in the conflict. The novel adopts the idea that the conflict was planned and organized by Wacousta, an ex- British army officer who turns into a brutal and powerful rebel with a vengeance against the fort commander. Wacousta is claimed as the first Canadian historical novel. Its themes include prophecy and opposites, such as manliness vs. effeminacy, wilderness vs. civilization, sensibility vs. compassion and the natural vs. the supernatural among others.

In "Wacousta," John Richardson delves into the tumultuous period of early 19th-century Canada, weaving a tale that intricately blends historical fiction with gothic elements. Set against the backdrop of the War of 1812, the narrative follows the struggles between British settlers and Indigenous peoples, encapsulating themes of honor, betrayal, and the specter of colonialism. Richardsons prose is richly evocative, marked by a heightened emotional intensity that captures the chaotic landscape of conflict and cultural collision. The novel is notable not only for its gripping storyline but also for its exploration of identity and the complexities of the settler-Indigenous relationship, making it a seminal work within Canadian literature. John Richardson, often regarded as one of the first Canadian novelists, drew heavily from his own experiences as a soldier and a settler in Upper Canada. His personal encounters with Native peoples and the realities of frontier life imbue "Wacousta" with a sense of authenticity and depth that is rare for its time. Richardsons keen insights into the human psyche and the moral ambiguities of his characters reflect the broader societal tensions of a nation in the making. Recommended for readers interested in Canadian history, colonial narratives, and richly layered storytelling, "Wacousta" is a profound exploration of the interwoven destinies of diverse peoples. This novel invites reflection on themes that remain relevant today, offering a critical lens on the historical landscape of Canada that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

"Tengo un amigo, un tipo llamado John, que está acometiendo un desafío relacionado con el golf. Trabaja a jornada completa, tiene esposa e hija y está intentando efectuar un recorrido igualando o mejorando el par en el plazo de un año. Sam Torrance, el famoso golfista y comentarista escoces, lanzo una carcajada, luego considero sin prisa la pregunta y dijo: "Bueno, puedes decirle de mi parte que Siga Soñando".Sigue Soñando es la verdadera historia de como John Richardson paso de tener un handicap de 24 a romper el par en un año (72) en el campo de golf local mientras trabajaba en un negocio muy exigente e intentaba ser un buen marido y excelente padre. Sigue Soñando es una historia hilarante e inspiradora de como John alcanzo lo que parecia imposible, como el reto fue tomando forma y los metodos que utilizo para mejorar de forma espectacular su juego hasta el glorioso dia, menos de un año despues, cuando rompio el par y jugo el mejor partido de su vida"."Fueron 363 dias de locura y caos. John golpeo casi 35.000 pelotas de golf, leyo al menos 60 libros y miro docenas de videos formativos cada noche. En la visualizacion de su reto, descubrio algunos personajes increibles, pero sus conversaciones privadas e imaginarias con Severiano Ballesteros fueron sin duda su mas grande inspiracion. Sigue Soñando. Mis conversaciones privadas con Severiano Ballesteros. Una historia honesta, entrañable y llena de humor".Actualmente se rueda una pelicula basada en la experiencia de John y desde aqui nos gustaria compartirla contigo. ¡Aprende con este libro lo que puedes conseguir en un año!" No es nada comun que alguien lleve a cabo una hazañacomo la de John. Da fe de como es el y de su entrega a esta tarea.Estas tecnicas funcionan y estoy encantado de haberle sidode alguna ayuda en su excepcional e impresionante logro.Lo que ha conseguido deberia ser una fuente de inspiracionpara golfistas de TODOS los niveles. Esto es soñar teniendoun PLAN de ACCION.Karl Morris,European Tour Mind Coach

In "Hardscrabble," John Richardson captures the grit and resilience of rural life through a rich, evocative narrative interwoven with themes of hardship and perseverance. The novels style employs a blend of lyrical prose and poignant realism, drawing on the struggles of its characters as they navigate the complexities of existence in a harsh landscape. Set against the backdrop of a dwindling farming community, Richardsons work illuminates the rhythms of everyday life and the indomitable human spirit, exploring how individuals are shaped by both their environment and socio-economic challenges. John Richardson, a lifelong observer of the rural experience, infuses the narrative with personal insights drawn from his own upbringing in a farming family. His deep understanding of agricultural traditions, coupled with a keen awareness of the socio-political changes affecting rural America, enables him to craft a narrative that is both authentic and relatable. Richardsons background as a skilled writer and storyteller shines through, reflecting his passion for illuminating the often-overlooked stories of those living in the margins of society. This compelling exploration of human resilience makes "Hardscrabble" a must-read for those who seek an authentic portrayal of rural life and the bonds that unite us in our struggles. Readers will find themselves captivated by Richardsons nuanced characters and beautifully rendered landscapes, making it a significant contribution to contemporary American literature.

Las verdades más inconfesables y los secretos más ocultos se insinúan aquí en forma de narraciones breves, de relatos alegóricos cargados de frescura y simbolismo. Maestro de la paradoja y del desenlace imprevisto, el autor choca, desconcierta y escandaliza al lector, al mismo tiempo que le seduce e invita fraternalmente a penetrar en el universo fantastico de lo oculto y lo evidente. Comparado por la cristica con autores tan dispares con Borges y Leon Bloy, barroco, polifacetico y desenfadado, Richardson ha cultivado todos los generos, desde la narrativa breve a la novela y el teatro.