BEESWING

Memories from the early, fruitful era in the acclaimed musician’s career.

In his detailed memoir, British singer/songwriter and guitarist Thompson recounts his unexpected rise from rebellious teen to influential rocker with Fairport Convention; the duo he formed with his ex-wife, Linda Thompson; and as a solo artist. For anyone who has heard Thompson classics like “Walking on a Wire” or “I Want To See the Bright Lights Tonight,” it’s no surprise that he knows how to tell a story and turn a phrase. He offers plenty of insight into the early days of Fairport Convention and its ever changing lineup along with charming anecdotes about getting stopped by German customs agents for carrying laundry soap in his bag or how his family name went from Thomson to Thompson due to a printing error on a brass nameplate his great-grandfather bought for his front door. What about the author’s songwriting inspiration? “Parents, partners and friends rarely understand that staring blankly out of the window is an important part of the creative process, and only occasionally an excuse for doing nothing.” As the narrative progresses, it becomes clear that there are subjects he is happy to discuss—his quest for religious fulfillment or his career as a session musician—and those he is not, including his courting and breakup with Linda or his family life. The holes may not have been as noticeable if the text didn’t move chronologically, using albums and tours to move the narrative forward rather than the major events of his life. That combination leads to awkward placeholders like, “Linda had gone through a fairly routine pregnancy and had given birth to our daughter Muna a few months earlier,” that could have been emotional centerpieces.

Fans of Thompson’s music will enjoy the stories behind his career, but those new to his cool style may find it a little cold.