In this week’s Doctor Pockless’ Poetry Masterclass I’ll be in conversation with Ray Davies. We’ll be looking at the extracts from some of his most famous works and asking if Mr. Davies ought to have been made poet laureate or persona non grata – a question that has divided critics for over 3 decades.

Doctor Pockless: Ray, welcome to my poetry masterclass.
Ray: It’s a pleasure to finally meet you, Doctor.
Doctor Pockless: I don’t doubt that it is. To begin with, due to the collaborative nature of this week’s workshop, I’d like to present you with your own authoricon.

Ray:Thank you, Doctor.
Doctor Pockless: There’s no need to be awestruck, Ray. That’s why I’m wearing suspenders this week. To put you at your ease.
Ray: It’s very much appreciated.

Well I’m not the world’s most physical guy
But when she squeezed me tight she nearly broke my spine
Oh my lola lo-lo-lo-lo lola
Well I’m not dumb but I can’t understand
Why she walked like a woman and talked like a man
Oh my lola lo-lo-lo-lo lola lo-lo-lo-lo lola

Doctor Pockless: So, Mr. Davies, would you care to explain Lola to our readers?
Ray: I would. Most people have got this song all wrong, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to set the record straight.
Doctor Pockless: So, it’s not about truck drivers?
Ray: No, Doctor, it isn’t. It’s about nuclear disarmament.
Doctor Pockless: But of course. I can’t believe I’ve never seen it before!
Ray: Well now you can.
Doctor Pockless: I can indeed. Thank you, Ray.
Ray: Thank you, Doctor.
Doctor Pockless: You’re much shorter in real life.