OBSESSION: JIM MORRISON

The subject of my obsession this week has to be the lizard king himself, leather clad lothario, Jim Morrison. A member of the notorious ‘27’ club, the American poet created some incredible music with that perfect balance of insanity and talent. It also helps that he was a complete bastard; a key trait for any heartthrob. I’ve heard people attach ‘overrated’ to a lot of bands from 60’s, The Doors included, but in my opinion, they deserve all the acclaim.

I highly recommend that you to give any of a number of biographies written on Morrison a read. It’s pretty evident that the man was ever so slightly unhinged, based on lyrics alone, but if you fancy getting a closer look at the notorious bad boy, ‘Strange Days: My Life With and Without Jim Morrison’, written by Patricia Kennealy Morrison, makes for an interesting read. She gives some reference to his childhood, various turbulent relationships with those closest to him, and her own experience of the man behind the façade.

Unsurprisingly, it’s awash with anecdotes of sexual violence and generally the kind of lifestyle we’ve come to expect from that epoch. The glimpses into his psyche which I found the most interesting were the tales from his youth. Unlike some rock stars that have all the pretence of near insanity, his early poems indicate he was the real thing, making me that little bit more fascinated with him. His lifestyle was never one that would end in a long life, but maybe that adds to the image. It’s probably not the kindest thing to wish death upon anyone, but there are definitely a few musicians who have continued past their peak. I’ve always been sure that, given the choice I’d prefer to go out on a high. It’s never enjoyable to witness the demise of a hero. I’ve seen one too many egos destroying their image and their own music by refusing to bow out gracefully.

Morrison is a prime example of a musician putting their soul into the music, living fast and dying young, if that’s not worth recognition I’m not sure what is. “It may have been in pieces, but I gave you the best of me.” Jim Morrison.

Sophie
@sophgallagher