Messing up the Paintwork: The Wit & Wisdom of Mark E Smith

by Mark E. Smith

As legendary frontman of post-punk outfit The Fall, Mark E. Smith was known as much for his mercurial temperament as his exceptional musical talent. Famous for his singular way with words both onstage and off, his road to the music hall of fame was paved with brilliant one-liners, eccentric behaviour, and the dozens of members of The Fall he ejected along the way.

Collecting his wit and wisdom for the first time and featuring an introduction from Stuart Maconie, Messing Up the Paintwork is a tribute to a musical icon described as ‘untouchably cool’ (Lauren Laverne), an ‘uncompromising musical maverick’ (Tim Burgess) and ‘a man shouting from a prison window’ (Frank Skinner). And it’s a book for the fans who will miss him terribly.

Genres: Music

192 pages, Hardcover

First published July 26, 2018

Reviews

[Nigeyb · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Mark E. Smith died in January 2018 it felt as if the world had shrunk. He'd been an ever present in my life from the first 'Bingo-Master's Break-Out!' single in 1978 until his death.

'Messing up the Paintwork: The Wit & Wisdom of Mark E Smith' (2018) is a splendid celebration of the irascible,aloof, funny, belligerent, complicated maverick. It would make little sense to anyone not steeped in Fall lore as it is a few essays interspersed with selected quotes from the man himself, bandmates and commentators. The whole thing creates a kaleidoscopic impression a true maverick.

We’ll not see his like again blah blah blah

4/5


'Messing up the Paintwork: The Wit & Wisdom of Mark E Smith' (2018)

[Adam · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fun but nonessential read for Fall fiends. An interesting format for the book, a scattered mix of quotes, innerview snippets, homages and fan poetry. The most striking reflection upon reading this is that the Fall’s music is so strong to me that I am willing to overlook the less desirable traits of the man who is primarily responsible for it. Smith can be unlikeable when he punches down or makes the mistake of using poor taste as a provocation. But other times, he’s irresistible:

“If Jesus had seen U2 he would have been very mad indeed. Jesus would throw bottles at U2” - Alternative Press, September 1993

“Now Wham[!], I think they’re really good. Whatever you say about them that guy’s a really good singer. His voice is great and he’s dead handsome and all that. Like when he goes on TV everyone screams, I think that’s great” - The Hit, October 1985

[quoted on page 149]

[Joe Richards · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fun if far from comprehensive read. Smatterings of poetry, quotes from and about the man and a couple of dedication articles - nothing particularly new, but would quite easily adorn a Fall fan's coffee table.

[Knut Sigurd · Rating 3 out of 5]

Den minst brae Fall-boka eg har lese til no, men så skal eg i gang med Mick Middles si straks. Om dette hadde vore eit minnenummer av mojo elns hadde det vore fleire fottos og ein CD eller ei speleliste vedlagd.

[Chris McLean · Rating 4 out of 5]

not a massive Fall fan but have read Brix and Simon Wolstencroft's 'recent' books and knowing of MES's uniqueness decided to give this a go.

Its a quick read of various quotes and other info but fun to see a compilation of his best (and worst) moments

[Tim · Rating 3 out of 5]

Holiday read. Had some interesting/amusing bits but too little MES and too many poetic tributes by I don't know who.

[Dante]

'shit, Mark E.'s in love, and look, he's even parting his hair.'

[Tim · Rating 4 out of 5]

As some others said, non-essential but fun. I also appreciate the design/layout.

[Jonathan Wonham · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's a light read for a bit of fun, especially if you like The Fall.