Pint of Purple: Sian Elvin

What book are you reading at the moment?

Depressingly (and disappointingly) for an English Literature student I don’t think I’ve had the chance to read a book for ‘fun’ since before starting my degree… If I look to my left I’ve just started Bleak House. Wish me luck with ever finishing that one.

Who is your favourite literary character?

Hands down, Dorian Gray. Because he’s so likeable, and so hateable, at the same time. I love how his character and twisted morality can be interpreted differently upon every reading.

What is the first book you remember reading?

I had the most beautiful illustrated edition of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland which my nan used to read to me. It became my ultimate goal to be able to read it myself and I wasn’t satisfied until I could.

Iris Murdoch’s The Bell – full of symbol- ism, sex, self-determination and shocking storylines. What’s not to love?! Everyone should go out and buy themselves a copy immediately.

If you wrote an autobiography, what would be the title?

It would be called Never Growing Up, because, well, I don’t want to grow up, and because I try to live my life to its fullest every single day – just in case I never get the chance to grow up either.

Kindle vs. Book?

I would never replace my beloved books with electronic versions for good, however people who are against the Kindle are just wrong in my opinion – there are so many advantages! Lots of books on holiday, course books for free, fewer books to carry onto campus..

And… How much is a pint of purple?

Should I be embarrassed that I’ve been to Pop! enough times to be fairly certain it’s £1.50? Pint of poison, more like…