Ordinary Individual on the Block: Description Unveiled
Gary Shand, a resident of Aberdeen, Scotland, has had a lifelong passion for music and writing that has been significantly influenced by Lou Reed and the Beat Generation.
In the early '80s, while working as an Admin Assistant, Gary discovered The Velvet Underground and Lou Reed's music. This seminal band, known for their avant-garde approach, dark lyrical themes, and blending of rock with art and poetry, left a lasting impression on Gary. From then on, 'The Velvet Underground and Nico' became one of his favourite albums, and he progressed onto Reed's solo albums from 'The Blue Mask' onwards.
Gary's writing style bears a resemblance to Jack Kerouac's, as he disguises people he knows as characters in his stories. His work includes autobiographical stories such as 'Rebel in the Head' and 'Scenes from a Life', and he has tried his hand at various genres, including Scottish poetry, Beat poetry, horror novels, and short stories. Currently, he is writing prose, memoirish flash fiction, biographical writings.
Music has always inspired Gary, and he has an imagined soundtrack for each decade of his life. Lou Reed's album, 'The Blue Mask', is particularly significant to him, as he considers it a reflection of himself.
Gary's collection of tapes and his workmates have often introduced him to new bands. Despite the lack of success with his poetry, Gary continues to write, inspired by the stories he wants to tell. In recent years, he started the 'Out and About in the 'Deen' Facebook page during the pandemic, sharing his love for Aberdeen and its history.
Union Street, Aberdeen, holds significant memories and dreams for Gary. His mother once told him he was 'one of the good guys, who would look to do the right thing.' This sentiment, combined with his connection to the city, fuels his desire to become a local historian and run guided tours.
As he grows older, Gary often worries less about people's opinions. He continues to be inspired by the city, its people, and the music that has shaped his life. His love for Lou Reed and The Velvet Underground remains a constant source of inspiration, as he continues to create and share his stories with the world.
[1] While specific evidence linking Lou Reed, The Velvet Underground, and Gary Shand's poetic work is not readily available, their influence on the arts, particularly in the realms of urban realism, fragmented identity, and experimental form, is widely recognised. If Gary's poetry engages with similar themes, it is plausible that their work has influenced him in these respects. However, without specific evidence or citations related to Gary Shand, this remains speculative. For detailed information specifically about Gary Shand’s relationship to Lou Reed or The Velvet Underground, additional targeted biographical or literary sources would be required.
[1] Considering his admiration for Lou Reed and The Velvet Underground, Gary Shand's poetry might draw on their experimental style and urban realism, perhaps reflecting their influence on his creative process.
[2] As a fan of Lou Reed's music, Gary Shand's imagined soundtrack for each decade of his life might include songs that resonate with his personal experiences and the significant moments in his life.
[3] Gary Shand's love for Lou Reed's 'The Blue Mask' highlights the album's significance in reflecting his own identity and emotions, bridging the gap between music and personal lifestyle.
