The ABC

Sir Spike Milligan

Sir Spike Milligan was born in 1918. He was an Irish "comedian, writer, musician, poet, playwright, cartoonist, soldier and actor." (Wikipedia, 2014).

He is best known for his writing and performances in the Goon Show. However, he also wrote books and poetry, especially nonsence verse for children, which continues to be used across the National Curriculum.

Milligan also wrote serious poetry, often reflecting his inner turmoil. He was plagued by depression, was bi-polar and had many breakdowns in his life.

He nevertheless always used humour up to and even beyond his death in 2002. Upon his request his grave's headstone reads:Duirt mé leat go raibh mé breoite, Irish for "I told you I was ill."