Welcome to a new series of Beat-related rambles! On today’s episode, Benjamin J. Heal and Fu Ya-Chu journey to London to sit down with publisher and independent Beat scholar, James (Jim) Pennington. This conversation, recorded in January 2024, offers a fascinating look into Jim’s unique career and his deep connection to the Beat literary movement.
Jim, a lifelong Londoner who sometimes longs for North Africa, has dedicated his entire professional life to the world of printing and publishing. His extensive career began with training at London’s North-Western Polytechnic and the London College of Printing. He’s held diverse roles, including print room and production manager for the British Safety Council (1971–75) and the anti-poverty charity War on Want (1975–79), before moving to the Lithosphere Printing Co-operative (1979–1991), among other positions.
In parallel with his professional career, Jim also ran Aloes Books, the influential small press he established with poets Allen Fisher and Dique Miller. Aloes Books became known for publishing key works by celebrated authors such as Kathy Acker, Thomas Pynchon, and William Burroughs, among many others. In 2014, Jim returned to small press publishing, focusing particularly on mimeo-stencil production techniques, a testament to his enduring passion for the craft.
In this chat, we’ll explore Jim’s early days in publishing, delve into the vibrant Brighton underground bookshop scene, and hear about his encounters with figures like Hoppy Hopkins. We’ll also discuss his involvement with War on Want, his insights into Burroughs’ Dead Fingers Talk, and, of course, the intriguing Mimeograph Revolution. Stay tuned for a rich and insightful conversation!
You can listen to the podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ebsn-fireside-chats-1/id1719503553?i=1000717425089
Next episode – the second part of the conversation (including the appearance of a mysterious Scientology suitcase) – is coming soon!
