Greetings, world!
I have howled into the social abyss for too long. A daily disappointment these days. After reading gushing testimonies that Substack is The Promised Land for writers seeking a more discerning readership – that's you 👋🏾 – I have decided to jump in.
The working title is Bluejeans & Moonbeams (out to the Captain). What I can offer is a bi-weekly missive of musings and observations on all things arts and culture.
From Catford (home of the ominous black fibreglass feline) to the world. Some of you might be familiar with my obsessions through Instagram. There's a lot of portrait photography and music. But there are also Bassett Hounds, comedy clips and poems. I will surprise you.
For those who don't know me or have stumbled here by the good grace of Substack's discovery engine, check the Q&A I did with Todd L Burns who runs Music Journalism Insider.
The story so far…
I am a copywriter, editor and mentor, originally from Brighton. My words have appeared in publications and on platforms including Positive News, Broccoli Productions, Lexus, O2, Straight No Chaser, Vodafone Business, Factory International and GUAP.
A trained journalist in thrall to narrative, I take a very flexible approach to my craft, moving between long-form features, copywriting, scripting and creative writing. I am interested in stories and people that defy expectations. Moments that help us reach beyond ourselves and our understanding of the world. So often, that is through the arts.
The plan is to offer you one new piece of cultural [small 'c'] criticism every issue (The Headliner), a pearl from the vaults (The Revival) plus a few links to nibble on (The Aftershow). If you can laugh while you learn something, it's bound to stick. Hicks' Law.
Please let me know what you think. This project is all about exchange. For every tap of a heart or share, I do a little dance at my desk. So you have the power to put a spring in my step ;0)
If you’re like me and you treat your inbox as a goodie box, subscribe now and never miss a thing.
Readers say:
“**Adds I’m A Fan immediately to higher up in the TBR pile** Loved this by thoughtful writer Amar Patel. If you like culture reviews and well-plucked quotes, he is your man. Brilliant stuff.” (Michaella Parkes, Structured Stream of Consciousness)
“So much goodness in this post, Amar! I really loved the Anthems piece on home. I feel I could listen again and again and get more out of it.” (Holly Starley, Holly Starley’s Rolling Desk)
“What a fantastic account of an unknown (to me) part of Indian music history... and the sci-fi dreams of the Sarabhais! This was a thrilling read, thank you!” (Suchitra Sukumar, Everyday Fantastical with Suchitra Sukumar)
“Enjoyed this! I enjoy all your posts, especially your musings on men who write about feelings.” (Author Emma Warren)
