Instamatic Karma: Photographs Of John Lennon
by May Pang

Life with Lennon

Life with Lennon As Lennon followers know, he and wife Yoko Ono separated during the 70s, a period known as the “Lost Weekend” due to its rampant excess. May Pang, Lennon’s companion for much of that time, first told her story in Loving John. Now, to balance out what she feels was that book’s more sensationalistic side, she’s put together a collection of photos that catch Lennon in a happier, more relaxed mood.

They’re largely the kind of photos you’d find in anyone’s album: Lennon laying on the couch, playing with his cats, eating soup. Of course, it’s not entirely anyone’s album. Most people don’t have Paul McCartney or David Bowie dropping in for a visit. Pang also captured one of the most historic moments in Beatle history: Lennon signing the contract that ended The Beatles partnership (at the Polynesian resort at Walt Disney World, of all places).

There’s added poignancy with pictures of a number of other folks no longer with us, including Harry Nilsson, Jesse Ed Davis and faithful Mal Evans, seen in a sweet shot riding a “magic teacup” at Disneyland. Though the photo quality varies (most were taken with a Nikon, but there are Polaroids) their historic value makes this book especially charming.

ISBN 031237441X

Reviewed by Gillian G Gaar
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