From His Own Eyes
I hated doing them in school because I didn't read anything other than text books. I used to choose a book which had a "Classic Comic Book" version and do my review based upon that! I always got a passing grade. Today I enjoy reading but this is probably my first biography, auto or otherwise.
I was introduced to Elton's music when I worked in England from 1972 to 1974 and he had become very popular. There everyone watched "Top of the Pops" somewhat like American Bandstand but a lot more flamboyant. Elton fit right in.
Before any notion or indication (to me anyway) that he might be gay, he was just an over the top showman, perhaps a more modern Liberace. (Yes, there is also another parallel.) The wild outfits, boots, hats and glasses were just for show or so it seemed.
It is for certain very insightful and candid. He gets into all of the topics that might me considered taboo by many. He does not really address his gender or sex life until well into the book. I had no idea what he was going through when I lived there or for many years after. Now I do. He covers his many addictions from drugs to drink to shopping and hoarding, clothes, dominating those around him and football to name a few. It would appear that the costumes were just another.
He dwells a lot on his family and upbringing and you can understand how this drove him to fame. His mother was a huge factor in his adult life but not his father. They remained estranged with rare exception, until his father's death. There are also lots of tidbits about other stars he came to know with just enough detail to astonish. Although outspoken about many of these, where he made a commitment to secrecy as was the case with his short term female wife, he honours such trusts. One of the world's favourite celebrities - Lady Di - is featured later in the book. There are some great stories.
To be honest I have not yet finished it. I certainly will. My only real criticism - and again I have read no other biographies with which to compare his - is the somewhat rambling nature of the flow. It goes back and forth chronologically a lot. I would have preferred a more organized journey through his life. Then again his entire career and temperament were all over the map so perhaps that is just his true character coming out.
I would recommend it although the $38 Canadian is a little steep. I have no doubt there will be a movie so if you prefer you can wait for that. He will profit either way.
Don't worry Mr. Dwight. The sun will not soon go down on you.
The Brewster
