In the Bluff

There is, argues poet Paul Farley, something very particular about the bluff that sets it apart from other members of the deception family.

More theatrical than a straight-forward, two-dimentional lie, it can be called, it can be doubled, and often times remains mysterious - we never actually find out whether indeed a particular bluff was just that.

It permeates our everyday conversation, with nods of the head and affirmative grunts suggesting that yes indeed we have read Proust, and are of course conversant with Scandinavian philosophy; it proves a vital weapon on the sports field and the poker table; and in international relations and military strategy remains an invaluable resource.

Paul takes to the poker table himself, and speaks to experts from a variety of fields, including Jonathan Agnew and Bridget Kendal, to delve deeper into the psychology and application of the bluff.

Along the way he frequently has need to suggest a degree of knowledge in subjects that in fact remain largely a mystery to him.

Producer: Geoff Bird

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in February 2016.