In a humorous twist of fate, Bertie Wooster and his steadfast manservant Jeeves awaken in the year 2025 after being cryogenically frozen for a century. They find themselves in a bewildering world, encountering modern establishments like a “Wellness Centre” and “Vape Heaven.” The story, titled “The Icebreaker,” is penned by comedian Frank Skinner and forms part of a collection called “Jeeves Again.” This anthology features twelve distinctive authors, all celebrating the legacy of PG Wodehouse’s beloved characters in a contemporary setting.
The Cultural Impact of Jeeves and Wooster
The duo of Bertie Wooster and Jeeves has left a significant mark on British literature and culture. Although they were created over a century ago, their influence is still felt today. Characters in modern shows, such as Carson from “Downton Abbey,” echo Jeeves’s attributes. Additionally, the hapless Englishman played by Hugh Grant in “Four Weddings and a Funeral” shares similarities with Wooster.
- PG Wodehouse wrote over 90 books, including 35 short stories featuring Jeeves and Wooster.
- He was born in Guildford in 1881 and initially pursued a career in banking before shifting to journalism and fiction.
- Wodehouse’s humor has inspired many contemporary writers, including Douglas Adams and Helen Fielding.
Modern Interpretations of the Classic Duo
In “Jeeves Again,” the twelve authors reinterpret the classic characters for a modern audience. Skinner’s story showcases Wooster as he grapples with the complexities of the 21st century. Notably, Andrew Hunter Murray imagines Jeeves as a smart car that guides Wooster into today’s world. Meanwhile, Roddy Doyle introduces a new character, Bertie McDevitt, who wins the lottery and seeks Jeeves’s wisdom.
The narratives also explore deeper themes regarding relationships, particularly in Deborah Frances-White’s “Mixed Doubles,” where Wooster reflects on his reluctance to marry. In “The Age of Spode,” the controversial character Roderick Spode is reimagined within a political context of the 1970s, showcasing Wodehouse’s characters in new light.
Bringing Wodehouse to the Present
Despite the challenges of updating a beloved classic, “Jeeves Again” succeeds in delivering entertaining and humorous tales. The anthology offers fresh perspectives while maintaining the essence of Wodehouse’s style. As Wodehouse’s writing lives on, this collection is a joyful homage to his unmatched wit and creativity.
The book, “Jeeves Again: Twelve New Stories from the World of PG Wodehouse,” published by Hutchinson Heinemann, is available now for those who seek a modern take on classic British humor.
