The Childhood Terror Of Richard Stilgoe- The Man On The Screen

Written for The Childhood Scares Challenge! by Annie Kapur

https://vocal.media/writers/the-childhood-scares-challenge

The Man on the Screen

Growing up in the 70s, my biggest childhood terror didn't hide in a dark closet. Instead, it beamed straight into our living room, disguised as family entertainment. 

It was Richard Stilgoe.

To the rest of the UK, he was just a funny,  clever man who wrote fast, funny songs on his piano for programmes such as That’s Life!. But to my young brain, there was something deeply unsettling about him. Every time he came on the telly, a genuine wave of dread hit me. Just hearing his name introduced, gave me an awful, knot in my stomach and looking at him made me feel physically sick. Frankly, I would have rather kissed a Cyberman or tried to make friends with a Dalek, than watch Mr. Stilgoe.

He would sit at a grand piano, fingers flying across the keys. But his eyes completely ruined me. While playing, he had this habit of swivelling his head and staring directly down the barrel of the camera lens. It felt like his intense gaze was cutting right through the television’s glass, tracking me across the carpet. Whenever he flashed that sharp, knowing smile mid verse, my throat would tighten up with nausea. I became totally convinced that he wasn't just performing for a studio audience. He was looking at me. The piano music, rather than being cheerful, sounded like a countdown to my doom. My chest would tighten, my mouth would go dry, and I'd get that horrible sensation you get right before you're about to throw up. 

I tried to avoid programmes he may be in, or run from the room if he caught me out. But if this failed and he struck a chord and gave that piercing look through the screen, my sickness and panic peaked. My family would laugh as I screamed and hid behind the sofa until the evil had vanished.

Decades later, I can appreciate his massive musical talent. Yet, even now, writing about him and if I see a vintage clip, my stomach does a familiar flip.

Here is the link to the picture of the man himself who is super nice and lives in Surrey, where he continues his work in music education, charity endeavors, and occasional live performances. I do feel bad! Sorry Richard.....

https://share.google/ZpJ9gbEkDARLO85mS