A Novel

Capsized Flotsam

A richly wood-panelled Victorian home office with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, a large desk, and a window seat
A hand-drawn sailing ship dinkus with wave lines

About the Book

Basil Oakenbridge, a once successful novelist in Edwardian London, struggles with writer's block as bill collectors thunder at the door. When a non-writer friend informs him that his own first novel is about to be published, it turns out to be exactly the book that Basil himself has just started writing, that no-one has seen except himself, with the very same characters, plot, and style.

In his quest for answers, Basil discovers more than most people ever knew about this world, and the world beyond.

A hand-drawn sailing ship dinkus with wave lines

From the Stage

Before it was a novel, Capsized Flotsam lived in the theatre — a gay Edwardian comedy first staged in New York City, then in Melbourne, Florida, in 1991, years before this Los Angeles production captured it below.

Poster for the original 2008 stage production of Capsized Flotsam, presented by Ark Theatre Company, Los Angeles
Ark Theatre Company, Los Angeles
June 26 – August 9, 2008
directed by Douglas Leal

Playwright Donaco Smyth meshes the wit of Wilde and the fantastic worlds of H.G. Wells, then throws in some of the outlandish zaniness of Monty Python for good measure.
"A raucous romp!" — The Village Voice

"Beautifully wrought characters and delightful performances give the evening an unequivocal charm."
L.A. Weekly

A hand-drawn sailing ship dinkus with wave lines

Get in Touch

Questions, press inquiries, or just want to say hello? Reach the author directly.