Sheik Yir Erse wrote:Sweltered wrote:Would a genius have pissed his life away like he has?
George Best? Jim Baxter?
However, would probably agree with you questioning him being labelled a 'genius'. No doubt there'll soon be a Channel 4 show called "The 100 Greatest Songwriters" - I wouldn't be expecting too many mentions for Mr Macgowan
This rant is not particularly aimed at Shane McGowan, but is just a general rant:
The word "genius" is one that is used much too freely nowadays, and seems, in many cases, to ignore the idea that such a person of notable ability, should also be a role model. To me, someone who achieves "high profile" through some ability or other, and then becomes known as a "hellraiser" is nothing but an idiot. I think that any contribution that people like this make to our culture is negated by their behaviour. They are taking the piss out of their gullible audience.
It seems to me that many people nowadays who are described as geniuses have become better known for their dissipatory lifestyles than for any alleged talent that they possess. Don't forget that many people now achieve fame through marketing and hype rather than under their own steam.
Many people of ability are held back by their own innate humility rather than being promoted by their own arrogance.
Rant over for the evening.