This week’s weird book room update contains orgies, bird poo, jello and more. And my favourite, the book of the week:
“While the title Le Petomane may not sound so weird, and may even sound quite classy to English-speaking ears, the direct translation is, roughly, “The Fart Maniac” or, as a creative profession, “The Fartiste”. Therefore, it is the subject matter of the book which earns it Weird Book of the Week this time around. Le Petomane tells the story of Joseph Pujol, who from 1887 to roughly 1914, delighted French audiences with the multi-faceted musical and impersonator skills of…well, his anus. A baker by profession, Pujol nevertheless discovered his rare derriere’s ability to inhale or suck water or air, and expel the same with great force. Onstage, these abilities translated to blowing out candles, imitating animals and musical instruments, and even smoking cigarettes, all via the back entrance. Audiences were enthralled and appreciative, and included the Prince of Wales, Belgium’s King Leopold II, and even Sigmund Freud (whose comment, if one was made, we sadly do not have).”
Wow. Three words to describe that guy:
Fun. at. parties.
