An Upcoming Collection of Layne Staley’s Journals and Lyrics
First Look at Layne Staley’s Book Reveals Unused Lyrics
Simon & Schuster has unveiled a sneak peek of This Angry Pen of Mine: Recovering the Lost Journals of Layne Staley, set for release on November 11. This collection will feature Staley’s personal journal entries, writings, and artwork, along with several previously unseen lyrics that were intended for Alice in Chains’ iconic EP, Jar of Flies.
Layne Staley, the legendary vocalist of Alice in Chains, tragically passed away in 2002 at the age of 34 due to a drug overdose. In the preview, one notable item includes handwritten lyrics for “I Stay Away,” a track from the 1994 album. The lyrics are displayed on a piece of paper, showcasing Staley’s unique handwriting.
Exploring the Differences in Lyrics
Fans of Alice in Chains will quickly recognize that the early version of “I Stay Away” differs significantly from the final studio recording. Both versions start with the same opening lines:
Yeah, hey, I want to travel south this year
Ah, woah, woah, won’t prevent safe passage here.
However, the chorus diverges sharply. The released studio version features:
Why you act crazy?
Not an act, maybe
So close, a lady
Shifty eyes, shady
In contrast, the early draft of the chorus, which will be included in the upcoming book, reads:
Why you always tracking around
Points are in a trail on the ground
Another sick room with your name
The trauma’s just a play in the game
Interestingly, there are additional crossed-out lines that touch upon themes of “strength in voice” and “masturbation.”
The Book’s Visual Content
Simon & Schuster has also shared a variety of images that will accompany the text in This Angry Pen of Mine. These include childhood photos of Staley, such as a tender image of him as a baby cradled in his mother’s arms and another depicting him as a teenager passionately playing the drums.
One journal entry reveals Staley’s entrepreneurial spirit as a teen, advertising drum lessons for $5 per half hour, humorously instructing students to “bring own sticks.” In addition, the book features unpublished poetry that illustrates Staley’s artistic range.
Family Involvement in the Book’s Creation
The creation of this book has seen significant involvement from Staley’s family. Notably, his mother, Nancy McCallum, penned the foreword for This Angry Pen of Mine. In her heartfelt introduction, she expresses her hope that the book provides readers with an insight into “the son I knew, the one beyond the headlines, the one with a beautiful, creative, happy soul.”
Moreover, proceeds from the book will support the Layne Staley Memorial Fund, which aims to provide education and treatment for heroin addicts and their families in the Seattle area.
Conclusion
The upcoming release of This Angry Pen of Mine: Recovering the Lost Journals of Layne Staley promises to be a poignant tribute to the life and artistic legacy of Layne Staley. With never-before-seen lyrics, personal insights, and family contributions, this collection will provide fans with a deeper understanding of the man behind the music.
FAQs
When will the book be released?
The book is set to be released on November 11.
How can I purchase the book?
It is currently available for pre-order through various outlets, including Amazon and Simon & Schuster.
What is the purpose of the Layne Staley Memorial Fund?
The fund aims to provide education and treatment for heroin addicts and their loved ones in the Seattle area.
Will the book include images of Layne Staley?
Yes, the book will feature several photographs of Layne Staley at different stages of his life, along with his writings and poetry.
