Finit.

I finished Punk Rock, an Oral History and although it dragged in parts, it was ultimately an enjoyable and interesting read. Because it was nothing but quotes from musicians, managers, roadies and fans alike, I felt like I really got a true insight into what life was like in the late 70s and I found myself laughing out loud at some of John Lydon's cynical rants about everything and everyone.

What I loved most about the book was how society obviously hasn't changed much since then with the various scenes and social groups. Prior to reading the book, I had no idea that Nazis caused riots at punk gigs or that teddy boys beat up punks in the street. I also had no idea that Bob Marley used to frequent the Acme Attractions shop, or that the SEX shop was 'expensive and pretentious' or that the worlds of reggae and punk were so closely linked.

It was interesting to hear people's perception on different bands, such as The Clash being sell-outs and The Slits being 'genius'.

The history of Sniffin' Glue interested me and I also found it pretty funny how John Lydon says about the safety pin trend "I used them because the fucking arse in my pants fell out and now every wanker's wearing them".


I got three new books from the library today:
Remember Me - Melvyn Bragg
Glue - Irvine Welsh
& one called Punk Fiction which is a collection of short stories inspired by song titles. For example, one of the stories is called Anarchy in the UK.