David to a tea ... a hell of a lot of Helfgott
Rosanna Every moved into her new home in country New South Wales and soon discovered that her neighbour was none other than pianist David Helfgott - and so this wonderful man came 'dashing into [her] life'. This is a very personal account of getting to know and becoming a lifelong friend of this extraordinary Australian.
David Helfgott's world does not have any place for unkindness or many of the materialistic values that seem to dominate us these days. Sprinkled throughout the book are 'Davidisms'. Helfgott's wisdom is that of an outrageously talented human being whose view of the world is very different and - in its own way - fiercely, yet gently, logical.
There are charming anecdotes about Helfgott's addiction to tea, about his need for (very) physical affection and his ability to play classical music from his prodigious memory. There are stories, too, about how he relates to the world. Who can forget the famous scene in the film Shine when his character, played by Geoffrey Rush, is joyously dancing semi-naked on a trampoline, clad only in a more than revealing overcoat.
There are many stories in this book that are heart-warming, challenging and very funny. Living with David Helfgott demands much energy, it seems. The author's meeting him and becoming a lifelong friend was life changing for her. He has changed all our lives and contributed to reinforcing the notion that there is great value in difference. And we must cherish those who see the world from a different perspective.
This book is available online at
www.fortysouth.com.au.
The book is also available at concerts.
