Eight writers go forward for the £2,000 prize, to be announced on 26 February.

Burgess’s literary and musical responses to the famous poet. By Andrew Biswell

Anthony Burgess on the joys of garlic. By Will Carr.

Burgess’s memories of sausages, mixed grills and HP sauce. By Will Carr.

Burgess’s infamous cocktail, ‘Hangman’s Blood’. By Will Carr.

Recipes from Burgess’s time in the East: nasi goreng and beef curry.

Spaghetti Formaggio Surprise, as prepared by F.X. Enderby. By Will Carr.

Burgess’s recipe for Lancashire Hotpot, the ‘Devil’s Supper’. By Will Carr.

Burgess and Beckett: ‘We’re all in it really, strapped to a porcupine sofa, waiting for God and water, becalmed in our filth’… by Andrew Biswell