Don Juan

The Dedication and first Canto of Byron's risky, satirical poem "Don Juan," read by Peter Gallagher in a new recording, synchronised with the text, and with lush illustrations by Lynette Yencho. 


Canto One was first printed anonymously in July 1819 by John Murray (also Jane Austen's publisher) who feared prosecution for the "wicked Lord's" attacks on conservative politics, politicians and poets; for his sexual innuendo, loose language and, possibly; for offending the values of the "middling classes." But it was an open secret that the author was Byron and the Poem was an immediate, popular hit. In the hilarious bedroom-romp of the first Canto of 'Don Juan', England's greatest satirist since Pope had found his mature voice. 


Now, Peter Gallagher's two-hour reading brings you the music and fun of Byron's exquisitely-rhymed ottava-rima verse. Best on the iPad (2 or 3). Also in iBooks on the iPhone.