This book is a must-read for Beatles fans, as it presents a different perspective on Lennon and McCartney through a focus on their songwriting and friendship. From their first meeting in the 1950s, to the Beatles years, solo careers, and Paul’s feelings about John in the 2020s, this a detailed look at the two men which demonstrates their genius, bonding and rivalry. As the title suggests, it’s evidenced through close examination of their songs, as well as research from interviews, memoirs, etc. Songs with particular relevance are scoured for references, with the conclusion that they were written about, or to, each other. They are peppered (Sergeant Peppered) with musical terms such as ‘contrapuntal’, ‘seventh’, ‘tonic’ and ‘major chord’, which might be a little difficult for a reader without musical knowledge. Some of the author’s descriptions of the songs are rather strange, but that’s one of the many great things about Beatles music; it can give us unique feelings about the sounds. George and Ringo didn’t get much attention in the book, except for where they had roles in the story of John and Paul, for which the author apologises. I appreciated the chapters on the solo careers of Lennon and McCartney, as quite often in Beatles books – those I’ve read, anyway – the narrative ends with the break-up of the band, or doesn’t follow what happened next in much detail. The book declares that they were best friends, although other people and situations pulled them apart, and that perhaps it was a romance. I almost didn’t want to read the chapters when we got to 1980 as it was so sad.
In summary this is a super book, although quite wordy. It includes some photos of John and Paul, including the first one of them performing together, and one of John in his music room at the keyboard, where a photo of him and Paul is prominently displayed.
Published by Faber, 2025.