Muhammad Ali - His Life and Times - Thomas Hauser

 This was one of several enticing books which had been languishing on my bookshelves, waiting for that opportune moment when it would receive my rapt and undivided attention and interest.

The edition of this book which I had access to was published in 1997, so it obviously does not cover the closing period of Ali's life, but I found it to be an illuminating and interesting read, which equipped me with a greater understanding of Ali the man, as opposed to Ali the legend or the myth.

Much of the text takes the form of quotations, and extracts from interviews with, various figures who knew Ali or came into contact with him. At times it occurred to me that the work relied too much on this material, and would have welcomed additional direct interpretation and subjective analysis from the writer himself, but at the same time the reminiscences of a diverse group of observers serves to deliver a balanced and rounded view of Ali the person and the boxer. 

If I was to venture another criticism it would be that the coverage of Ali's early boxing career (his amateur days) is a touch thin. My perception was that the story moved somewhat hastily to him winning an Olympic gold and then initiating his professional career.

The turbulent and pivotal period of 1964-1970 is well covered, and here the recollections of people is invaluable, as it assists in understanding what an intricate position Ali found himself in. This was the section of the biography which I personally learned the most from, about Ali himself and also the social and cultural backdrop against which he operated.

As the book wore on, any minor reservations on my part gradually diminished, and the chapters chronicling the major boxing contests of the 1970s were nothing less than gripping and entertaining. There is a genuine sense of "time" and "occasion" in these passages, and it mattered little to me that some events are seemingly dismissed with little commentary. What mattered to me was the overall effect and what I discovered about that stage of his life and his boxing journey.

The information imparted about the business and promotional sides of boxing were also intriguing, eye-opening even. Life was indeed simpler, more informal and more "off the cuff" in those days.

As well as serving as an engrossing account of Muhammad Ali's life up to that point, the anecdotes, reflections and prose act as evocative portraits of the changing times, shifting attitudes, changing values and new forces.

The author and the contributors do manages to bring across the nobility and allure of boxing, as well as its occasional cruelty and destructiveness. I was fascinated by the chapters which examined the decline in Ali's career (the years 1976-1981), and this does not always make for comfortable reading. It is disconcerting to read about the fears for the boxer's physical wellbeing, and how long the situation was allowed to persist.

This biography quite bubbles and soars towards its conclusion. It pulls few punches, if you will pardon the pun. Aided by candid and honest opinions from some, it offers a clear insight and depiction of who the real Ali was, his journey in life, how he changed, and in what senses he remained the same, his flaws and his greatest genuine qualities. Also, what made him unique as a boxer and as a sportsperson.

Last Train To Memphis - The Rise of Elvis Presley - Peter Guralnick

Last Train To Memphis - The Rise of Elvis Presley is the first part of Peter Guralnick's epic, and justly acclaimed, two-volume Elvis biography.  I know that when one is faced with a two-volume biography, about any subject, it is advisable to read the first volume before tackling the second. However, in this instance I tackled the process in 'reverse order', as it were. This situation arose because I have traditionally been more interested in the latter stages of Elvis's life and career than in the beginnings. Either way, I don't think that the order of my reading significantly affected my appreciation the merits of the works. I wrote a review of the second volume Careless Love in an earlier article on this blog.

First of all, it is a delight to read a biography composed by someone who is not only authoritative and enthusiastic about his subject, but who can also write engagingly and fluently. From the outset Guralnick immerses his readers in a sense of time and place. One senses his commitment to evoking the historical and social context of events, but he does not obscure the main narrative by forcing those matters unduly.

Ironically, some of the most affecting passages in the early chapters did not concern Elvis directly, but rather offered an atmospheric and detailed depiction of life in Tupelo and Memphis during the 30s and 40s. One of this book's strengths is the way in which the tale is gradually and credibly unfurled, so that the evolution of Elvis the person and the performer is a continuous and rolling tapestry, and not a series of 'contrivances'. 

There is a vivid and intriguing depiction of the times and the circumstances into which Elvis was born, and in which he grew up. These chapters are characterised by a lot of detail, and the story is told in a more or less chronological format. A reminder that even seemingly mundane matters can be of great interest when sensitively and adroitly addressed.

Guralnick creates endearing portraits of some of the colourful characters who inhabited the Memphis scene during Elvis's youth. The picture of Elvis which emerged for me was of a complex but very human figure who, although gifted and unusual, also possessed idiosyncrasies and insecurities like everyone else. No case is proffered for him being 'superhuman' in any way. 

When reading large parts of this book I detected a mood of cautious optimism and confidence, even among humble folk, in the post-war era, but again this is not overplayed, and there is always the risk of later generations romanticizing something which, to those who were actually there, was nothing out of the ordinary. The author's apparent circumspection in commenting on such matters helps to ensure the book's realism and integrity, in my view.

Learning how Elvis and those around him in those early days navigated their lives and passed through the 'necessary' stages of growth, I was left pondering how much more informal and seamless life's journey appeared to be back then. 

The attention given to examining the psyche of Elvis and his motivations and ethos, particularly from the time before he became famous, is a key ingredient in the quality and value of this biography. Some might view the author's observations on these topics as somewhat nebulous, but this might be because there are no simple answers to most things...

As regards the emergence of the 'youth culture', in which Elvis first immersed himself and then personally helped to intensify, this is documented not by outlandish philosophizing but largely by simple but persuasive prose. The excitement and 'novelty' of the early-to-mid 50s is conveyed without recourse to hyperbole or inflated claims of the period's significance.

One of the themes which struck me was that Elvis was no 'overnight sensation'. His impact is properly illustrated, but we are also reminded that this was a gradual ascent, punctuated by minor setbacks, mis-steps and false dawns. The 'transitional' stage, between the singer's becoming a local celebrity and attaining national stardom, is a fascinating phase, and Guralnick cleverly relates the tension and ferment.

The areas of the book which discuss the processes by which Elvis's management structure came about I found very enlightening, and it may surprise some people as to how Colonel Tom Parker came to be the undisputed boss.

For me the picture was augmented appreciably by the care taken to explore Elvis's musical influences, and the way in which he had direct contact with many prominent Memphis singers and musicians long before he made it big. I was also interested to discover that the author was very sincere and even-handed in assessing the genres and styles which actually constituted the Elvis sound.

I loved the accounts of the recording sessions, both at Sun and RCA. Very atmospheric, and peppered with rich and amusing anecdotes and nuggets of observation concerning Elvis's demeanour and manner, and the reactions which he inspired. 

Another surprising but revealing pattern which I discerned was how calm and resolute Elvis remained at some critical stages, whilst many of those around him were feeling fretful and apprehensive. It seems that he had a vision and a shrewdness which are not always credited to him.

In the chapters covering the time when Elvis had become an international phenomenon, my perception was that he still seemed to be regarded as a 'second class' star, when compared to movie actors and 'pop' singers. A hint, perhaps, that rock n roll was still looked down on, or viewed with suspicion?

Even as early as 1956, one can sense some of the things which came to characterize the decline of Elvis - difficulty in maintaining 'ordinary' relationships, the beginnings of estrangement from a normal existence, and so forth.

I enjoyed reading the insights into the strategic vision of Colonel Tom Parker and others, about how the Presley career was expected to pan out. People sometimes forget how short his first burst of stardom was, and things may already have been changing before he entered the Army. The hysteria which attended the concerts, whilst initially exciting and gratifying, could clearly become wearisome and unedifying.

Even at a relatively early stage, an entourage was starting to build up around Elvis, and the dynamics and comings-and-goings amongst that group form an interesting sub-plot, which would of course assume greater importance later in the star's life.

Towards the end of this book one can feel change closing in, and the mood is very adeptly captured by the author. The perfect scene is starting to unravel. It is also clear what a pivotal event the death of his mother was for Elvis. It also underlined that nothing was going to be the same again.

Last Train To Memphis is a gripping and illuminating read. Both this volume and its 'sequel' Careless Love are very much recommended.

Jackie Stewart - Winning Is Not Enough - The Autobiography

I have decided to revisit some books, in particular biographies, which had previously not made much of an impression on me. Perhaps the passing of time and a shift in my circumstances, and those of the world in general, might render them more interesting or impactful. I started with the autobiography of the former racing driver Jackie Stewart, entitled 'Winning Is Not Enough' - I read a paperback edition, published in 2009.

First of all I must make it clear that I have a lot of admiration for Stewart, for what he has achieved, and for how he has conducted his life. I wish that I had, in my own way, followed some of the principles which have paid dividends for him. At the same time, I have some mixed feelings about the merits of this autobiography.

The main reservation which I have is that certain areas of interest, such as his early life and the minutiae of his racing career, are not examined in sufficient detail, whereas other things are allotted what might appear undue space. I suppose that the reader's viewpoint will depend on how they approached the book.  Strictly as a 'racing driver biography' it does not quite come up to the mark, but I found that it compensated in other ways.

One other thing to bear in mind is that Stewart was only a 'professional' racing driver for just over a decade, so an autobiography necessarily covers a lot of other ground. Perhaps one day an eminent author will write an exhaustive, intricate and scholarly work devoted solely to his racing exploits.

His childhood struggles with dyslexia are outlined. It is instructive that once he found and identified something for which he had an aptitude, in this case clay pigeon shooting, new vistas were opened up, and his perceptions of himself and the world were altered. A reminder that we all have talents, and something to offer the world. Discovering these strengths, and then applying and channelling them positively and constructively, can make all the difference to us as individuals. This area of the book, along with Stewart's explanations of his modus operandi in life and work, were the themes which really stuck with me afterwards.

The book does not follow a strict linear, chronological pattern, but I did not find that a problem. There are lots of enlightening and amusing stories and anecdotes, although if I was being critical I would say that some of the passages are too 'wordy', and often use several words or phrases where just one would have sufficed. The prose is not particularly lyrical, but I guess this is a matter of personal taste or experience.

Another thing which emerges from the pages is how much Stewart valued simple virtues and guiding principles, and how well these have served him over the years; things such as integrity, simplicity and practicality. It is easy to lose sight of how important these things are in forming the bedrock of relationships or undertakings of all kinds. 

The question of 'name-dropping' is one which has been associated with this autobiography. Yes, there is quite a bit of it. Perhaps a bit of judicious pruning might have been advisable, but then again Stewart does mention many less famous, less celebrated figures who helped him and became lifelong friends of his. 

I actually quite enjoyed the descriptions of his associations with business and the media. This may not be a fashionable thing to say, but we can all learn something from people who have achieved great things. Try to do your best, to learn and improve, and to seek out opportunities which will be stimulating and empowering. We all have potential just waiting to be realized. We can also benefit from mixing and interacting with people from varying backgrounds, and absorbing some of their perspectives and values.

The chapters dealing with the formation of Stewart Grand Prix I found quite impressive, as they offer some insight into how much work goes into such a project, and how decisions are taken at high levels within organisations. The process does not always on hinge on formality or 'procedure'. 

Of course, considerable space is given over to Stewart's involvement in campaigns to improve safety in motor racing. One can only admire his persistence and his energy in pursuing such matters, and there are some moving and absorbing passages documenting the times when he lost friends in accidents.

Overall, this book I think provides a slightly more rounded portrayal of Jackie Stewart the man than sometimes might have been the general public perception. This book is not a masterpiece, it has its faults, but it also has, if read carefully and selectively, the capacity to inspire and to entertain. In a broader sense , for me it at least partially succeeded because it made me feel more optimistic and hopeful, for a short time anyway.

Cromwell - Our Chief Of Men - Antonia Fraser

Oliver Cromwell has held a special fascination for me ever since my school days, when I undertook some studies and projects about the man. Later in life, as my philosophical, moral and political antennae grew more acute and even discerning, my feelings grew more mixed and sceptical, with the caveat that one must to an extent make allowances for the period when a person lived and acted.

It has been levelled that the biography, Cromwell: Our Chief Of Men,  by Antonia Fraser, leans too heavily in the direction of reverence and sympathy for Cromwell. I think it is true that the author's words indicate an admiration for her subject, but this is far from a hagiography.

The interpretation of events can occasionally seem pro-Cromwell, and his supposed virtues and strengths are proffered, but to my mind there is no real effort to conceal his mistakes or weaknesses, and little effort to downplay some of the less palatable episodes in his life and career.  In addition to opinions, the facts are outlined, and tend to speak for themselves.

One of the charms of reading a book about the seventeenth century is the quaintness of the language contained in the assorted quotations from sources. The actions and thoughts of men, and the mood of the period, is often illustrated in a poetic manner.

In our secular times it is often difficult to grasp the fervour with which people of those times warmed to their task, especially on matters spiritual.  I think that the author tries to interpret and filter such zeal into a worldly form for modern minds, but I must admit that the regular references to "providence" and similar concepts did become rather wearing before I got to the end of the book.

A considerable slice of my interest in the English Civil War and the Cromwellian period in general these days centres on the more radical political and religious voices which inhabited the landscape of England. Elements within the Army, and groups such as The Levellers, were pushing for greater economic democracy and social equality. Yes, these factions were not strong enough, and it is a moot point whether some of their manifesto has even been fully implemented as we speak in the 21st century. I was pleased to see Antonia Fraser regularly refer to these radical sections of opinion throughout her book.

I sensed that the author had fairly trenchant opinions concerning the legality (or otherwise) of the trial and execution of Charles I, and this I would say helps to counter the charges of pro-Cromwellian partiality. She also laments the way in which parts of the Irish campaigns were conducted, and bemoans the attitudes behind that conduct, seeming to question Cromwell's mentality.  The "rules of war" and "how things were done at the time" are invoked, and the author examines the forces within Cromwell which led to his actions. The impression one gets though is that the author feels disdain and sadness for this particular chapter in the Cromwell saga.

A theme within these pages which quite intrigued me was the theory that Cromwell was more effective and skilled as a military commander than as a politician, some of the qualities which served him well on the battlefield not necessarily translating into being useful in the world of political endeavour.

The constantly shifting structures and dynamics of power in the Commonwealth, and the timescales involved, could appear confusing, but these passages were highly instructive in assessing Cromwell's inner motivations and his strategic and tactical grasp.

Within the book there are some interesting reflections on how Cromwell's elevation, and the general course of events, affected cultural and social life in England.

When Cromwell's policies and beliefs are scrutinised closely, they do not strike the modern "enlightened" observer as being particularly progressive, and the emphasis placed on stability, order and security is a constant and recurring topic.  The temptation to laud the clamour for radical change is easy from an armchair, but it was not going to have to be introduced in a vacuum.

At regular intervals the author is at pains to cite examples or instances where Cromwell exhibited "clemency" or common humanity, intervening in the case of one individual or another.  This is all well and good, but should such behaviour and values have been the rules rather than the exceptions, being granted as a matter of course and basic rights?

It is worth noting that the author frequently seems to draw a distinction between Cromwell's own personal inclinations and interventions, and the more obdurate and unyielding forces of the laws and the executive bodies. This, together with the constant references to Cromwell's good deeds and "good works" were over-laboured almost to the point of becoming counter-productive, nearly seeming like "making excuses".

In fairness, the author does sometimes acknowledge that the Protector was often unable to force through general improvements and improved rights for everyone. This is a crucial point for me;general rights and liberties are important indicators, not discretionary favours to be awarded in isolated, selected situations. I can up to a point sympathise with Cromwell's pronouncements regarding security and order, when one considers the fevered and tumultuous nature of those years, but this should not totally absolve him from criticism.

One of the best written and most convincingly argued chapters is the one which examines Cromwell's deliberations when he was "offered" the kingship by Parliament. Some real insight is provided here on his worldview and his psyche, as well as the breadth of opinion which existed in England at that juncture.

Going back to the notion that Cromwell was a better soldier than a politician, I would contend that it is easier to measure and quantify his military successes and achievements, in terms of important battles won, clear strategic ascendancy attained, campaigns expedited. The political balance sheet is a more ambiguous and subjective beast, with tantalising glimpses of what could be, more a case of what his time signified or presaged than what ultimately got done.

The final chapter of this biography was impressive balanced and authoritative, and it helped, along with some of the other material in the closing third of the book, to make me slightly more receptive to the book's overall tenor.

I didn't agree with everything which was said in this work, but I still found it to be a rewarding and illuminating read.

One Of Your Own - The Life and Death of Myra Hindley - Carol Ann Lee

The Moors Murders case is one which remains embedded in the psyche of my country.  This biography of Myra Hindley, written by Carol Ann Lee is a very solid effort.

There is some very useful insight into Myra Hindley's early days, and how her outlook and temperament developed. Well-written and evocative of life back then, these passages give an illustration of the way in which a strong and unusual personality came about.

The author does not just draw "obvious" conclusions and assert that every feature of her upbringing, or major incident or event during it, can be directly and unambiguously linked to the later events and crimes, or cited to explain them. There is an appreciation that life is more complicated than that. Overall, the chronicling of the early lives of Hindley (and also Ian Brady) is unfurled in a seamless, measured but highly readable fashion.

I would say that this work has equipped me with a more rounded understanding of how Hindley and Brady gelled "philosophically", what motivated them, and how they became detached and alienated from the rest of society. These were perhaps the most enlightening sections of the book for me.

Another feature of One Of Your Own is the way that developments are placed in some kind of socio-cultural context, especially in relation to the changing, turbulent times of the 1950s and 1960s. The subject matter examined here is clearly disturbing, but I find its sociological and philosophical dimensions fascinating.

Lately it has occurred to me Brady and Hindley were symptomatic of the dark side either of the then nascent "Swinging Sixties", or more generally of post-war social upheavals. They may have represented a rebellion from the conformity and drabness of post-war life, but their rebellion was clearly destructive and nihilistic, unlike some of the more progressive and optimistic movements which flowered later in the decade.

The format of a full biography permits a fuller analysis and documentation, rather than a mere framework. Watching documentaries, and reading some articles, can make it appear like the crimes took place in some kind of vacuum.  Here a bigger, deeper picture is presented.

For me there was a slightly new perspective on the period from early 1965 onwards, and what plans the duo may have had for the future. The role of David Smith, Myra Hindley's brother-in-law, is explained and examined.

Graphic detail is not always presented when describing the murders, but the reader only needs to "read between the lines" to discern the terror and suffering which the victims were subjected to.

There is in-depth coverage of the police investigation, the searches and the interviews, with the "nuts and bolts" of how the horrors of the crimes came to light.  It is frustrating to hear about the infighting and discord between different police forces.

A large part of the book is given over to Myra Hindley's years in prison, especially the period from the time of sentencing to the mid-1980s, something of a "lost period" in my own knowledge of the case. Media coverage seemed to explode in the 1980s, with the new and dramatic developments which happened at that time.

As regards the "prison years", an intriguing sub-text for me was the change in some attitudes, and the emergence of more enlightened times with regard to how we address social issues and how we treat convicted criminals.

One lesson which emerged for me was how resourceful and tough Hindley was, probably more resilient and coherent than Brady. Quotations from letters and other correspondence give an idea of what she was like in the latter years of her incarceration. Some of Hindley's pronouncements and thoughts made me very angry, but it was also illuminating to read about them.

I was quite absorbed by the stories of the ebb and flow of Hindley's fortunes and morale, and her fluctuating relationships with her friends, relatives, associates and supporters. The thoughts of people who she came into contact with over the years give varying and interesting perspectives on her state of mind and her motives.

In conclusion, I think this is a very creditable examination of a difficult and horrific story.

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Careless Love - The Unmaking of Elvis Presley - Peter Guralnick

I recently finished reading this superb work, which is the second and concluding volume of Peter Guralnick's highly acclaimed biography of Elvis Presley.  It takes the story from Elvis' induction into the US Army through to his death in August 1977.

The book takes in the "Hollywood years" of the 1960s, and excitedly documents Elvis' resurgence in the years 1968-73 (the Comeback Special, the "Suspicious Minds" period, the early Las Vegas years and the famous Hawaii satellite concert). 

As I made way through Careless Love, my interest increasingly centered on the shifting dynamics within the Elvis entourage and family, including the so-called Memphis Mafia. 

Guralnick captures the insidious and gradual nature of Elvis' descent into isolation and stagnation, with his increasing dependency on unhealthy lifestyle choices and his increasingly impulsive and bizarre behaviour. 

My tentative interpretation was that a life which had once been so full of new, exciting and novel things became predictable, constricting and stultifying.  The tipping point or source was imperceptible, and by the time it registered nobody knew how to forge an escape route. It seems that even as Presley's career fortunes were undergoing a pronounced upswing, his behaviour began to exhibit disturbing tendencies.

This is an absorbing and highly detailed book, intensively researched, but one cannot help but be saddened by the tale of decline and despair related in its closing chapters.  I found the writing style very appealing and immersive.  Highly recommended.  

Bob Dylan : Behind The Shades : Take Two - Clinton Heylin

Another of the music-orientated books which was sitting rather forlornly on my shelves was this Bob Dylan biography by Clinton Heylin. This particular edition was published in the year 2000.

Apart from my admiration for the music, my knowledge of Dylan had been somewhat sketchy. This tome filled in many of those gaps. It contains some interesting material about the subject's family background, his upbringing and his early musical forays.

This was the first Heylin work that I had read, and I quite liked the style. He spends a lot of time putting various myths and legends into perspective, presenting the basic facts.

I absolutely loved the story of Dylan's gradual immersion into folk music, and reading about it has spurred me to explore that scene more thoroughly myself. Heylin makes the story seem real, as the Dylan legend can sometimes appear overpowering. His path to greatness was not radically different to everyone else's.

To be honest, I didn't always agree with the author's opinions on music, or his pronouncements about certain artists, and the relative merits of some of Dylan's "competitors". Having said all this, Heylin's observations did instill a certain food for thought as regards who was truly "innovating" or "making the pace" in the mid-Sixties. The depth and vision of Dylan's albums of that time was unusual and challenging, and it is worth remembering how much reverence other artists had for the man and his music.

The author's take on Dylan's artistic progression certainly solidified my regard for the Blonde On Blonde album.  That record has a reputation for being enigmatic and less than immediately accessible, and I think that Heylin may have enabled some people to see its true strengths more clearly.

From the version presented here, it seems that being around Dylan and his touring entourage in the years 1965/1966 was not always the healthiest or pleasantest pastime. On the surface, it must have been a relief for him to escape from that whole scenario.

A feature of this book is the space and detail which it dedicates to Dylan's life and work following his 1966 motorcycle accident. The "Basement Tapes" era is looked at in some depth, and this section of the book provided me with some indications as to how The Band made the strides to the mastery of Music From Big Pink. 

The "lost" periods such as, let's say, 1970-1973 are a sizeable part of the fascination. I got quite engrossed with the journey which Dylan was on, as his work became perhaps more overtly influenced by his private life and by those creative individuals with whom he was associating.  Another feature of this book is that the author's views on what constitute Dylan's strong creative times do not always correspond with the general public consensus.

The Rolling Thunder Revue, at least in its earlier guise, seems like it was a lot of fun, both onstage and off!

I enjoyed the chapters which addressed the 1980s, although they occasionally felt slightly compressed; or maybe it was just that less of originality and note was really occurring? The tale of stagnation and marginalization, and of several false dawns, is sometimes painful to read. His interactions with the newer artists make for illuminating reading. Most of those people owed a great debt to Dylan, even if some of them did not realize it or appreciate it at the time.

As I followed the story from the early 1980s onwards, I increasingly wondered to myself how much of all this was actually fun. He seemed to be searching for something, but perhaps he didn't really know what that "something" was, hence the bewildering array of collaborations and backing musicians.

This is an interesting read, particularly for someone who is a Dylan fan, but not obsessively so.

The Byrds - Timeless Flight Revisited - The Sequel - Johnny Rogan

Timeless Flight Revisited is a highly detailed biography, published around 1997/1998, of one of the most influential of all rock groups. Rogan has written other books about The Byrds, both before and after this one. Much of the material in this one is based on interviews conducted by the author with group members.

Looking at the chapters which cover the formative stages of the band, it is striking how amateurish those early days were.  Some of the guys had musical experience, but in terms of rock n roll they were virtual beginners. In some respects there was almost a punk ethos about the project at that point.

I feel that the author very occasionally gets slightly carried away in extolling the group's greatness and its position in the grand scheme of things as regards music in the Sixties.  And I say that as a major admirer of the Byrds' music myself.  However, this is counterbalanced by honest and forthright appraisals of the chronic instability which plagued the band, and how this both helped and hindered creativity.  The deficiencies and setbacks are discussed with some directness.

Some of the strongest parts of the book are those which examine the personal and artistic dynamics within the Byrds, and the alliances which formed between individual members and producers, management and so forth. A lot of space is necessarily allocated to documenting how people coped with the mercurial David Crosby!  The book makes a valid point in comparing the creative core of the Californian combo with its equivalents in The Beatles (Lennon and McCartney) and The Rolling Stones (Jagger and Richards).  The tensions and antagonisms within The Byrds frequently generated magic, but sometimes the outcome was less than healthy. Their structure was much more fluid and amorphous.

Each album is reviewed song-by-song, and the author demonstrates a shrewd musical ear in evaluating the merits, or otherwise, of the group's released  (and unreleased) output.  Whilst this book rightly celebrates the achievements of The Byrds, there is also a sense of what might have been, both artistically and commercially. The author shows an adroit feel for the real reasons for this deficit, looking at the (first) departure of Gene Clark as a crucial turning point.  The suggestion that Gene could somehow have been accommodated in a non-touring, "Brian Wilson" role is very intriguing.

Time is taken within the pages to bring out a full picture of the personalities and motivations of the key players in the drama.  I found these areas to be especially illuminating in the cases of Chris Hillman and Roger McGuinn.  Hillman is traditionally painted as "the quiet one", but he was perhaps more assertive and outspoken than is sometimes imagined. As the book progressed I began to feel twinges of frustration at how the egos and agendas within the group could not be subjugated to the cause of making The Byrds more commercially successful and enduringly vibrant as a creative entity.

Commendably the author devotes considerable attention to the years of "decline", from 1969 to 1973, with often withering assessments of the era's mis-steps and absence of inspiration. The squandered opportunities, petty jealousies and wrangles are all part of what makes the Byrds' saga so compelling, I think.

There is ample coverage of Byrds-related activity subsequent to the dissolution of the original band, including the numerous side projects and offshoots, and the reunions and get-togethers of various combinations of personnel.  There are also excellent obituaries of both Gene Clark and Michael Clarke.

Altogether, this is a highly comprehensive account of the group's turbulent story.  A lengthy read, but ultimately rewarding in getting a full portrayal, warts and all, of an important part of rock music history.

Rock and Roll Doctor - Mark Brend

Little Feat became one of my favourite bands once I had taken the time and trouble to properly listen to their music, in my mid-twenties. However, until recently I had not closely studied the group's history or the stories behind the music. This gap has been remedied to some degree by reading Mark Brend's book Rock and Roll Doctor, which looks primarily at the life of Little Feat's guitarist, vocalist and songwriter Lowell George.

The appeal of Little Feat for me, over and above their infectious quirkiness, was their sheer musicality. There is an intangible and elusive quality which is difficult to pin down, and I have often thought to myself that once somebody has heard Little Feat's music in favourable circumstances, that person is a fan for life.  And much of the pull and allure of Feat was, and is, down to the talent, personality and humour of Lowell George.

Brend's book is perhaps not a definitive biography of either George or the group, but I found it enlightening. Time is taken to document George's musical education, and how some of the things which characterized his conduct during the Little Feat era stemmed in part from those early days.  What emerges for me is a picture of one of the more cerebral, unusual and restless talents in the history of rock music.

The author makes some mild criticisms of the group's eponymous debut LP, and I am in accord with those views, up to a point. Yes, the sound of the album does not have the depth or richness of later efforts, and by some measures Feat remained very much a work in progress at that juncture, looking for a niche and that "sweet spot" which later came to encapsulate the band's unique vitality. However, taken on its own terms that first record exudes a charm and relative innocence which makes it highly enjoyable and affecting.

Throughout the work, Brend displays a good way with words, especially when evaluating the individual albums and their constituent tracks. These commentaries are very well put together, and the dissection of the songs reminded me how the band's finest moments came when fairly conventional ingredients were mixed together to form a vibrant and distinctive product.

I would have liked a little more about Little Feat as a live act, since that was where they gained much of their reputation, especially in their "middle period".  Having said this, the book helped to deepen my understanding of Little Feat's methods and the dynamics within the band. There is some shrewd appraisal of the reason's for Feats difficulties, both in attaining major commercial success and in maintaining harmony and unity.  Brend also exhibits a sound understanding of the legacy of George and Feat.

This is a very readable and well-written exploration, a fine attempt to capture what made George and Feat so special and beloved by so many people, both the fans and journalists. In its portrayal of Lowell George, it paints a picture of a person who had his faults, but who equally was generous in his collaborations, and endlessly musically inquisitive and curious.

Bright Lights Dark Shadows - The Real Story Of Abba - Carl Magnus Palm

Bright Lights Dark Shadows is a biography of the Swedish pop group Abba, written by Carl Magnus Palm. The edition which I have was published in 2001.

After having browsed through it periodically, I recently worked my way through this book in its entirety. In conclusion, I would say that it is a highly readable, and illuminating effort.

A goodly portion of the book is given over to chronicling the period prior to the emergence of Abba, following the upbringing of the four group members and the development of their musical careers. This approach brought home to me how Abba was no overnight success, and that progress in those formative years was not uniformly smooth.

I think the book scores highly in its exploration of how the four people reacted to each milestone or setback in their careers, and how they viewed success and celebrity. The level of detail for me helped to convey how the real story is far more complex than the simplistic version often served up by the mainstream media. This is especially true where the characteristics and personality traits of the musicians are concerned.

Throughout the book there is extensive focus on the business and financial side of Abba's story, and in particular Stig Anderson's role.  We also get a sense of how the music business worked in those pre-internet days, and the struggle which Abba had in receiving "cultural" recognition, most of all in their native land.

From what I can discern the author has delivered a balanced and honest account of the Abba years. The negatives and the problems are analysed, the triumphs are celebrated.  I liked the author's style in discussing the merits of songs and albums, highlighting how the various tracks were born and developed. My own understanding of what made Abba tick artistically was considerably enhanced.

It is clear that, for differing reasons, the members of the group were not that keen on touring for much of the time. The documenting of the 1977 Australian tour, and the attendant hysteria, offers a convincing depiction of how touring was not always conducive to general wellbeing and harmonious personal lives. Indeed, a theme throughout Bright Lights Dark Shadows is how Abba dealt with the various pressures and expectations which encroached once fame and fortune arrived. I am sure it was occasionally fun!

There is some intriguing and thoughtful perspective on the Abba "revival" which commenced around the early 1990s.  The book offers some acute observations on the reasons for the resurgence in interest in Abba, and also some misgivings about certain aspects of the revival.

Overall, I really liked this book. It augmented my knowledge of and appreciation of Abba as artists, and offered a telling reminder that "stars" are also real people, with real feelings and emotions, and that all is not as idyllic, pleasurable or straightforward as the masses might like to imagine.

Testimony - Robbie Robertson

Testimony is a memoir by Robbie Robertson, best known as guitarist and songwriter with The Band. It is not a full biography as such, as it only takes the story up to 1976 or thereabouts, but it is an entertaining and enlightening read.

The book chronicles Robertson's upbringing, and his musical apprenticeship, as he cut his teeth playing countless gigs in small venues, soaking up knowledge and expertise along the way. The tales of his time playing with Ronnie Hawkins are especially amusing and occasionally lurid! There is also some intriguing material regarding Robertson's family background and his ongoing links with relatives and his roots.

One of the things which strikes me most about Testimony is that it provides the reader with a ringside seat, so to speak, as the musical revolutions of the Sixties progressed, looking over the shoulder of someone who was a part of those upheavals and landmark events.  To me the journey feels real and organic, free of the cliches and platitudes which often characterize portrayals of that era. Above all, the love of music and self-expression permeates everything. The stories are told with genuine relish and enthusiasm.

The author is candid about the ebb and flow of his relationships with other musicians, particularly his band-mates. Also, I was fascinated by the chapters which cover his associations with Bob Dylan, such as for example the turbulent and momentous concert tours of 1965/66 and the recording sessions which gave rise to the so-called "Basement Tapes".

Robertson indulges in quite a bit of name-dropping, telling us how he used to hang out with the likes of Andy Warhol, Marlon Brando and Salvador Dali. This does, though, help to underscore the vibrancy of those times.

As an admirer of The Band's music, one of the most valuable functions of this work for me is the way that it offers some insight into how the group's acclaimed and important early albums took shape. We also gain an idea of what an impact those first two records in particular had on the music world, and on creative people generally.  Above all, that period just sounds like it was enormous fun!

The closing sections of the book are both interesting and poignant, as we learn how the rock n roll lifestyle began to sap the creativity and cohesion of The Band, culminating in their farewell concert (famously documented in Martin Scorsese's film The Last Waltz).

I found this book to be a riveting read.  It is well worth checking out for fans of rock music.

The Life of Senna - Tom Rubython

I know that Rubython's motor racing-related works have met with a mixed reception from enthusiasts, and I share some of the misgivings commonly expressed.  His biography of Ayrton Senna, entitled The Life Of Senna, originally published to roughly coincide with the tenth anniversary of the Brazilian's death, contains abundant detail, but also some flaws and "padding".

For me there is not sufficient nuance in the analysis of a very complex and intricate subject. Too much in the way of "black and white" thinking, and some careless and ill-advised choices of words to describe the merits of teams and drivers.

Another aspect of the book which stands out for me is the amount of repetition.  In addition, there are inconsistencies, contradictions even, in appraisals of events or people.  An occasional absence of cohesion and continuity which does not inspire confidence.

The above reservations notwithstanding, this book contains some interesting material concerning Senna's methods and motivations, and what made him unusual, although much of this is down to quotations from, and interviews with, associates and friends of the subject. One does get the sense of how Senna elevated his sport to another level in some respects.

I would say that the passages concerning the chronology of the Imola 1994 weekend itself are reasonably well done.and illuminating.

This book is good in places, not so good in others, and I suspect that the definitive English-language biography of Senna has yet to be written.

Alain Prost - Christopher Hilton

Continuing my odyssey through assorted racing driver biographies, I turned next to the late Christopher Hilton's book about Alain Prost. This edition was published before he did his final F1 season (1993) with Williams.

I found this to be a frank exploration of its subject, looking at the darker and less appealing sides of Prost, whilst also acknowledging his undoubted strengths. Also, there is lots of valuable and intriguing material about the nature of the sport, with some illuminating contributions from colleagues and associates.

After re-reading this book I was left with the conclusion that the sport itself did not (maybe still does not) lend itself to the most pleasant relationships and to the most admirable behaviour.  Then again, these people would not have got to this position without exhibiting certain characteristics to an abnormal degree.  Extreme scenarios are not always conducive to compromise or even moderation.

As for Prost,  I was reinforced in my esteem for his driving ability, perhaps even enhanced, although his performances seldom stirred the blood like those of Senna, Schumacher and others.  I retain some ambivalence about Prost the person.  Yes, he was a man of principle and honesty in many respects, but was also quite manipulative and a bit of a moaner at times.

This biography is an even-handed account, I would contend, and I do not think that the author could be accused either of favouritism or of any bias. I enjoyed the passages about Prost's karting exploits, and the assertion (an assertion arguably supported by the facts and statistics) that in reality he did not exactly set the world on fire in that field of endeavour.  The opening chapter is also well done and impactful.

In conclusion, there is some good insight about what made Prost tick as a racing driver and as a human being. He was clearly suited to the tactical and technical demands of the mid-1980s, but successfully adapted to the later "sprint" era - 1990 was one of his greatest seasons, putting Nigel Mansell into the shade that year. Although the period is not covered by this book, I felt that he rather "phoned in" his drives in 1993, equipped as he was with the best car. The problem was that his effortless style did not inspire, because people prefer to see the effort up-front.

Ayrton Senna - The Hard Edge of Genius - Christopher Hilton

I recently decided to revisit some "old" books, starting with racing driver biographies, and first on my list was this work about Ayrton Senna, written by the late Christopher Hilton.

The Hard Edge Of Genius was written in the early 1990s, and the edition which I have takes the story up to the point where Senna had just clinched his second world championship title.

There have been many books about Senna, but to me this one still stands up as one of the best. It is notable for its relative brevity, its breezy tone and style, and its genuine efforts to explain and understand a man who was already regarded as something of a phenomenon.

An intriguing dimension of going back to this biography was to acquire a snapshot of how Senna was perceived when he was arguably approaching the apogee of his career. The story was not yet complete of course, but the notion of the "flawed genius" was already largely in place. The Brazilian did seem to mellow in later years, but when this book was written that stage of his development could not be clearly foreseen. Indeed, there are some fascinating predictions as to how the Senna tale might develop or end.

Like other authors who have tackled this subject, Hilton makes a creditable attempt to grasp the essence of what made Senna tick, and like others he was confronted with a complex, somewhat elusive set of conclusions. Some of the factors which made Senna special were what made people hostile towards him circa 1990, although I think that later on people appreciated him more, partly because he was sometimes cast as the underdog (in 1992 and 1993 for example), and this helped to fill out and consolidate the mystique which existed even before Imola 1994.

Good use is made of quotations and observations from people who knew and worked with Senna. This is important, because the author is able to make some credible assertions about the Senna approach and persona based on actual events which occurred long before he even reached the glittering heights of Grand Prix racing.

Going through this work again I was reminded most of all what a remarkable, unusual and multi-faceted person Senna was.  These characteristics are what make him and his story much more compelling than those individuals with merely statistical claims to greatness.

This biography stands as a very worthy effort to analyse Senna and the "Senna effect".  Hilton himself, and others, wrote books later which encompassed the whole story, including his tragic demise, but this remains a praiseworthy effort in its own right.

The Last Viking-The Life of Roald Amundsen-Conqueror of the South Pole-Stephen Bown

I find that reading about exploration is a very good way of restoring some perspective, whilst at the same time allowing a little escapism. Stephen Bown's biography of the great Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen is both highly readable and illuminating.

I was already aware of Amundsen's thorough and meticulous approach to leading expeditions, so the main revelations for me from this book were the complexity of his character and the turbulent and often precarious nature of some aspects of his life.

Much emphasis is placed not just on the Norwegian's rational and diligent methods, but also on the mentality which he brought to his endeavours. In contrast with the "romanticism" of other explorers of that age, one of Amundsen's major priorities appears to have been to achieve an objective, but also to minimize the risks and dangers by leaving very little to chance.

As I worked my way through this biography, I found Amundsen and elements of his philosophy of life to be quite inspiring, especially his attitudes towards personal industry and its connections to motivation, harmony and well-being. Also, his thirst for knowledge and self-improvement serves as a great example, as a means of averting stagnation and complacency.

Although some definite strands can detected, I also found Amundsen's personality to be rather elusive and difficult to pin down. He was above all, either consciously or otherwise, modern in his outlook, pointing the way to the future in many respects. His attention to detail and willingness to embrace new ideas was combined with his gradual utilization of the media and publicity, although apparently he sometimes found the latter distasteful and wearisome.

The author's writing style I found entertaining and absorbing, if sometimes breathless. The enthusiasm for the subject is palpable, and this gives this work an edge, a zest and a vibrancy which elevate it above the ordinary.

One of the most curious facets of Amundsen's life was his perpetual financial difficulty, and it is a galling irony that he, the most competent and masterly explorer of his generation, was regularly in such dire fiscal straits, whilst others were generously bankrolled by governments and public institutions. This side of the story helps to construct the picture of a man whose life and career were not as orderly and perfect as the legend might occasionally suggest. He sometimes had to improvise in order to get the job done.

It is heartening that this book gives prominence to some of the expeditions which are perhaps less famous in the public consciousness as well as, for example, the race to the South Pole. I was particularly fascinated by the chapters which examined Amundsen's experiments with aviation, and his sojourn in Siberia.

I think that Bown presents a balanced and plausible portrayal of a complex and remarkable person. What emerged for me most of all were Amundsen's restless energy and his constant quest to cover new ground and surmount fresh challenges.

Memories of The Bear - A Biography of Denny Hulme - Eoin Young

I recently read Memories Of The Bear, by Eoin Young, a biography of Denny Hulme, the 1967 World Formula 1 champion.

If one of the measures of a good biography is whether it imparts an enriched understanding and appreciation of its subject, then this particular effort generally succeeds, although I would not regard it as a definitive study.

The book contains many amusing anecdotes, and enough to evoke a strong sense of the nature of motor sport in the 1960s. Much use is made of material from Denny's own magazine columns, and this gives the tales a flavour of immediacy, and of how things were done back then. His laconic humour is rather endearing.

One of the things which shines through for me is Hulme's no-nonsense and pragmatic approach to his chosen profession. He has perhaps been seen as something of an enigma, when compared to some of his contemporaries, but upon closer inspection he comes across as a determined and highly capable racer, who has been rather underrated by history.  His achievements were impressive and numerous, and on reflection we do not need to rely solely on the statistics sheets to assess these.

In part due to the era in which he participated, Denny Hulme can be viewed as something of a transitional figure. Old school in some respects, but also very modern in his views on the increasing commercialisation of the sport and on matters of safety.

Highlights of the book include a look at the controversial 1966 Le Mans race, and Denny's mixed experiences at the Indianapolis 500. Not surprisingly, there is major emphasis on the Can-Am series, which provided Hulme with some of his most notable triumphs.

The care taken to examine Hulme's early life, and the values instilled by his upbringing, help us to understood how he turned out as a racing driver. Very much a hands-on figure at the races, and unpretentious in his lifestyle, rather uncomfortable at times with the plaudits and the media attention. I think that some of these traits obscured his genuine merits, and contributed to him being under-estimated.

One area where I think that this biography is slightly lacking is in putting flesh on the bones of his racing career.  What was the background and the motivation behind some of his important career decisions, such as switching teams?  I would have liked more material to join together the racing seasons, and to place them in context. In that sense, the accounts of the racing seasons are a touch dry.

An enjoyable read, but one which left me wanting a bit more.

Sebastian Coe - Coming Back - David Miller

Recently I have been going through a concerted phase of reading about the Olympic Games, and middle-distance running in particular.  This led me to delve deep into my "archives" to re-read the book "Sebastian Coe - Coming Back", by David Miller, published in 1984.

This is not a biography as such, but it documents that phase in Coe's career from the end of the 1981 season through to the aftermath of the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. It examines the runner's recovery from two years of illness and injury to retain his Olympic 1500 metres title.

What makes this work doubly interesting is that it covers a period when the sport of track and field athletics itself was going through a time of transition, when commercialism was being allowed to rise to the surface, and when inevitable growing pains were being encountered. Indeed, there are several instances here where those commercial pressures seemed somewhat at odds with the long-term interests of certain British athletes.

Coe was dogged by misfortune and setbacks in 1982 and 1983, and his often turbulent relations with the British press are examined here, as he is written off, and parts of Fleet Street revert to their traditional practice of knocking sports stars when they are down. A hardening of Coe's attitude reached its culmination in his famous gestures to the press box after crossing the finishing line in the 1500 metres final in Los Angeles.

This focus on his dealings with the media is just a part of a wider look at the Coe psyche and temperament. He displayed a resilience and a resourcefulness which many were unaware he possessed, in overcoming adversity to regain past glories. By the time of the '84 Olympics, one becomes aware of a serenity, almost, mixed with a confident resolve to succeed.

Another interesting aspect of this book is its close look at the training methods employed by Coe and his father/coach Peter, and how these were modified to suit the special circumstances of 1984. It becomes apparent how consummately he had peaked for his second Olympics, although I am left wondering how much the problems of 1983 might have actually played a role, by dictating the time when the athlete could begin serious running again.

Reading a book published in 1984 allows one to be "wise after the event.".  The author, for example, assumes in his calculations about the post-1984 athletics landscape that the Soviet Union and East Germany would still exist by the centenary Olympics of 1996. Also, Coe's proposed move up to the 5000 metres event, much discussed within these pages, never really materialized.  Also, he did eventually capture that cherished major title over 800 metres (at the 1986 European Championships in Stuttgart).

An enjoyable and interesting read, this one.

Stirling Moss - The Authorised Biography - Robert Edwards

In my experience, most biographies of racing drivers do not offer much in the way of searching insight into personalities, motivations and foibles. They tend to barely scratch the surface in this respect. A notable exception to these rules is Robert Edwards' authorised biography of Stirling Moss.

This book devotes unusual space and attention to examining Moss's family background, his time at school, the role of his parents and his upbringing. At various stages an effort is made to put Stirling's experiences and achievements in some kind of sociological context; again, not something one usually finds in a racing biography.  In some ways I suppose that he was a transitional figure, combining many "pre-war" values with the ethos of the more commercial age which was just beginning.

So often in books, the prowess and drive of high achievers almost appears to come out of nowhere, but Edwards lays plenty of pipework here, allowing us to gain an idea of how the subject's character took shape, and how his psyche and outlook evolved over time.

I would contend that many of the author's observations and conclusions about Moss would surprise the general observer, in that they tend to be less straightforwardly in line with the public perception. The popular image of racing drivers, especially from the era covered here, does not always tally with reality.  Behind the "heroic" facade, they all had their weaknesses, quirks and needs.

Another aspect of this biography which impressed me was that Edwards was not afraid to leave chronological "gaps" in the narrative, instead preferring to concentrate on context and an evocative and representative portrayal of the subject.  The author goes into great detail about the areas which he thinks are instructive and important, but he doesn't feel pressured to document every race of every season. In this way, one gets a more rounded and humanistic sense of Stirling's progress, as well as a richer perspective on events.

It is pleasing to see that as much attention is given to Stirling's exploits in sports cars and certain "niche" spheres as is allocated to his Grand Prix endeavours. The sport was not so "F1-centric" in the 1950s, and all of this also serves to convey the mastery and sheer versatility of Moss. 

Technical matters are also gone into, mostly as a way of illustrating which way the racing wind was blowing, and to place some of Stirling's career moves into greater historical context.  The passages concerning Maserati, Mercedes and Vanwall in particular are thoughtful and penetrating, again dispelling one or two "myths" along the way, and painting a more nuanced picture than is often painted.

A prominent feature of the latter stages of this biography is the concentration on the aftermath of the accident at Goodwood in 1962, and its physical and psychological effects on the driver. Like many areas of the book, it benefits from being "authorised", and is therefore based on good, sometimes rare source material. Again, this all goes well beyond the simplistic, cliched version which was moulded by the popular press.

I also enjoyed the chapters which looked at Stirling's life following his decision to retire from racing, and how he adapted to his new circumstances. The book is written in a pleasingly erudite but economical and accessible style.  If the test of a good biography is whether the reader emerges with an enhanced understanding of the subject, and actually learns a few things in the process, then I would suggest that this fine effort comes through with flying colours. 

Jim Clark - Tribute to A Champion - Eric Dymock

Jim Clark is possibly the most gifted racing driver ever to emerge from British shores, yet his public profile was never as high as several of his contemporaries or near-contemporaries. Graham Hill was a charismatic extrovert who enjoyed the limelight and public affection, whilst Stirling Moss and Jackie Stewart survived their racing careers to achieve a high media profile in the ensuing decades.

Clark's comparatively low level of recognition with the general public may be put down to his reserve and reticence, and these and other elements of his make-up are examined in Eric Dymock's book, first published in 1997. The common perceptions about him may have clouded a more complicated and nebulous picture. The book devotes much space to assessing Clark's character traits and psyche, in addition to his feats on the racetrack.

Much emphasis is placed on his upbringing in the Scottish Borders farming community, as well as his education, and all this provides a more rounded portrait of the man than is often projected by superficial and condensed television documentaries and internet "screenbites".  This once again reinforces my conviction that if you want to acquire a nuanced understanding of a subject, don't rely purely on "audio-visual" media;read books, too.

Dymock's book has a quirky flavour and structure to it which I found quite appealing, eschewing a dry chronological story, and occasionally going off on tangents to explore sub-texts. Don't expect an exhaustive documentation of race results and chassis numbers. There is some input from people who knew Clark well, and their observations merely serve to strengthen the enigma. 

What emerged for me was a sometimes melancholy tale, not a smooth and seamless fairytale. The contradictions inherent in motor racing come through;people were entranced by aspects of the sport, but also had to reconcile themselves to its more unsavoury realities, especially the dangers and risks. Also, the true nature of the sport in the Sixties was perhaps not as idyllic and wholesome as is sometimes made out.  Some of that era's most revered exponents were not as perfect and heroic as some might like to hope, and Dymock does not flinch from highlighting some of the flaws. 

An illuminating and intriguing read...

McLaren Memories - A Biography of Bruce McLaren - Eoin Young

This book had been nestling on my shelves, but had been awaiting my full attention. I am glad that I gave it a read. Biographies are always more satisfying, and linger longer in the memory, if the reader comes away with a significantly greater appreciation for the subject than beforehand. This was the case for me with this book about the life of the New Zealand racing driver Bruce McLaren.

The book is based on the recollections of the author, a long-time friend and associate of Bruce, but equally importantly it draws heavily on the driver's own words and writings. There is no in-depth analysis of his character, although indications of his innermost feelings and concerns emerge in the various quotes and reminiscences.

There is some valuable material about his childhood, and struggles against adversity, and those first steps to immersion in the spheres of engineering and racing. Insight is also gained concerning the burgeoning of his ambitions, once he arrived in Europe.

To me, the middle sections of the book were the most illuminating and enthralling, evoking as they did the atmosphere and flavour of racing in the late Fifties and Sixties. McLaren's laconic and dry humour is a delight. The schedule which the drivers and teams of those days coped with is, looking back, extraordinary, and one gains a sense of the improvisation which was vital, in organisation and logistics. The haphazard, frenetic and breathless state of things seemed also part of the fun and the stimulation.

Overall, McLaren Memories greatly augmented my knowledge and understanding of the man's achievements and abilities.  It is not a massively penetrating examination or appraisal of its subject's psyche and motivations, but it is an entertaining and endearing portrait of a popular and successful figure, who had a short but eventful life.