Everyday Joe: Unremarkable Individual Spotlighted
In the heart of Aberdeen, Scotland, Gary Shand contemplates finding a way to market his poetry pamphlets online, as he continues to write with a passion that refuses to wane. Shand's writing style, reminiscent of a Scottish screiver and a Beat poet, has captivated many, drawing comparisons to Jack Kerouac and Lou Reed.
Shand's current work-in-progress is a collection of autobiographical stories titled 'Rebel in the Head' or potentially 'Scenes from a Life - the autobiographical ramblings of Gary Shand'. This project, like much of his work, is a semi-fictionalized account of his life, with people he knows often appearing under pseudonyms.
The inspiration for Shand's writing journey can be traced back to his mother's words. "You're like your father," she once said, "not someone who would set the world on fire, but one of the good guys, who would look to do the right thing." This quote still motivates him today.
Shand's introduction to Lou Reed's music came in the early '80s while working as an Admin Assistant. Particularly relatable for Shand was the song "Average Guy" from Lou Reed's album 'The Blue Mask'. The raw, introspective style of this album resonated with him, and Reed became one of his favourite musicians.
Despite not having a direct connection with Lou Reed or The Velvet Underground, Shand's work bears the influence of their groundbreaking artistic approaches. He has a large collection of tapes from various bands, including The Velvet Underground, which he often listens to for inspiration.
Shand's writing urge is still strong, and he continues to write, despite the lack of commercial success. This determination is evident in his Facebook page 'Out and About in the 'Deen', which he started during the pandemic, five years ago.
Union Street in Aberdeen, known as the 'Granite Mile', holds significant memories for Shand. It's here that he discovered his love for writing, and it's here that he continues to find inspiration.
In 2025, Shand considers being 'average' as not a bad thing. He believes that everyone has a unique story to tell, and he's determined to share his. His writing may not set the world on fire, but it's the good guys who often do the right thing. And for Shand, that's enough.
[1] For more detailed insights into Gary Lucas's career and his collaborations with Lou Reed, further research into music biographies or interviews with Lucas may be necessary.
[1] Gary Shand's writing, with its strong autobiographical undertones, shares similarities with the lifestyle genre, offering glimpses into personal growth and self-development.[2] In education-and-self-development platforms, one might find courses on creative writing techniques, which could be beneficial for Shand as he continues to hone his craft.[3] Shand's work, influenced by Lou Reed and Jack Kerouac, falls into the realm of entertainment, provoking thought and drawing comparisons with other artists within the genre.[4] As a home-and-garden enthusiast, Shand could explore the connections between his writing and the aesthetics of his living space, potentially showcasing his work in an innovative and engaging way.
