George Harrison: Living in the Material World by Olivia Harrison is an adjunct to the HBO documentary, or you could call the documentary an adjunct to this book. Either way, they are about the same subject – George Harrison. If you have seen the documentary and are a big fan of the former Beatle, then this is a great addition to your collection. If you have not seen the documentary, this book reveals what is disclosed on the film. There are quotes/interviews from George Harrison, Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Dhani Harrison, Eric Idle, Eric Clapton, Ravi Shankar, Irene Harrison, and many others who knew George throughout his life.
What is interesting is the development of Harrison from young guitar player to famous Beatle to spiritual student to contemplative being, and everything else in between. The spirituality of Harrison is revealed as is his zest for his music, his garden, and his friends.
The Photos in the Book – George Harrison: Living in the Material World
The photos reveal a lot about George Harrison. Not only are they a record of his life, but provide readers a good look at how he changed physically through the years. This is also evident in the documentary. During his drug days, Harrison became extremely gaunt.
Another interesting fact is that Harrison aged beautifully. Although he never made it to a ripe old age, George, after his skinny drug days, matured into an attractive middle-aged man.
Many of the photos are taken with Harrison’s camera. And each photo has information about who is in it, and where and when it was taken.
The Music of George Harrison
If you only know George Harrison as a Beatle, then you do not know the music of the man. He loved Indian music. He incorporated many Indian styles into his music. He also leaned on his own spirituality and feelings when composing his songs.
“My Sweet Lord”, “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”, “Within You Without You”, “Something, Here Comes the Sun”, “All Things Must Pass”, and many more George Harrison songs have touched the lives of millions of people.
George Harrison - More than Music
People might not realize that George Harrison was more than a singer/songwriter. He was a movie producer too. He was also a big fan of Formula One racing. His life did not end with the Beatles. As a matter of fact, one of the stories told in the book by his son Dhani is about the boy coming home from school being taunted by his friends who were singing “Yellow Submarine.” Dhani had no idea what was happening as he never knew his dad was a Beatle! In fact, George Harrison was much more than a Beatle. This book is a tribute to the man, George Harrison, who was indeed, much more than a member of the most famous singing group. He had an extraordinary life.
- George Harrison: Living in the Material World
- By Olivia Harrison
- Publisher: Abrams (September 27, 2011)
- Hardcover: 400 pages
- ISBN-13: 978-1419702204
