Poet Roger McGough at 88: Minefields, Magic, and Asking Alexa About Sex

The celebrated British poet Roger McGough has led a life as colorful as his verse. Now 88, he recalls running across a minefield, being bewitched at a bus stop, and celebrating with his family. Born in Liverpool, McGough was a teacher before finding fame in the 1960s. He formed the comedy and music group The Scaffold, which reached number one with the song "Lily the Pink." He later became the beloved host of BBC Radio 4's "Poetry Please" and has published over 100 books of poetry for adults and children. In a recent interview, McGough was asked about his happiest moment. He replied, "Last Sunday when all the family came round to celebrate my 88th birthday. (Or was it Saturday. Or the week before, perhaps?)" The poet also answered a more personal question with his trademark wit. When asked how often he has sex, he responded: "Hang on, I’ll find out … Alexa, how often do I have …" McGough has four children and lives in London with his second wife. His latest work, "Collected Poems 1959-2024," compiles a lifetime of his writing.