I moved house almost a year ago and I’ve still not completely moved in. I have boxes where I don't know whats in them and boxes with things in them that I have no idea why I still have them.
One such box was full of books, love books. One book in particular stood out, for a variety of reasons. The Man Who Fell to Earth, written by Walter Tevis. A former professor of English at Ohio University and author of The Hustler, which was made into the famous film staring Paul Newman. Great film!
This book was also made into a film, staring David Bowie and Rip Torn. I’ve been reading it again for the first time since 1976 and noticed that the Illustrated cover was produced by Bowie’s school boy friend, George Underwood. I had the pleasure of chatting with George at Brian Grimwood’s book launch in 2012.
For those who are of an Illustrative persuasion you might note the economy of the colour palette and tonal values that have been used. This subsequently frames the face to affect an luminous quality with a central focal point. The result is a particularly striking book jacket.
This blog post is perhaps a book review or recommendation. The recommendation is...its a very good read. Even if the film might not be your cup of Early Grey, this is a highly visual and imaginative story.
Interestingly, the publisher was a little bit previous by declaring on the cover notes that the music for the film would be by Bowie. That didn't actually happen although the album ‘ Low ’ was generally regarded as the sound track that never was.
Happy reading to all, I'll see what else I have
in these boxes.