Wrote for Luck

Synopsis

In the mid-1980s the Happy Mondays emerged as the prime mischief makers on the Madchester scene. Chief protagonist was Shaun Ryder, a man whose lyrical street swagger in songs like Kinky Afro, 24 Hour Party People and Performance, would come to define a generation. Here, collected and edited for the first time, in trade and special editions, are his unforgettable lyrics with commentary by the man himself and an introduction by his literary collaborator, Luke Bainbridge.

With characteristic understatement, Tony Wilson once compared Shaun William Ryder's lyrics to the poetry of W. B. Yeats. That is, if W. B. Yeats had been an inveterate drug-taker and occasional dealer, a compatriot of criminals and crazies, an aficionado of low life and high times; if he had painted artful sketches of endless parties and urban blight, of chancers, dead beats, fanatics and, always, an endless stream of pharmaceuticals; if W. B. Yeats had composed fractured, hilarious, grubby and shrewdly observed anthems for the Madchester generation. That W. B. Yeats: Shaun William Ryder.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Importance of Luck

* Argues that luck plays a significant role in all aspects of life, from success to happiness.
* Cites examples like a job candidate stumbling upon an opportunity they didn't know existed or a lottery winner beating incredible odds.
* Emphasizes that by recognizing the role of luck, we can become more open to new possibilities and less likely to blame ourselves for setbacks.

Chapter 2: Three Pillars: Luck, Skill, and Will

* Introduces the three pillars of success: luck, skill, and will.
* Defines luck as "opportunity meeting preparation" and explains how it can be created by putting ourselves in the right places and being open to unexpected encounters.
* Skill refers to the knowledge and abilities we develop through hard work and practice.
* Will is the determination and resilience that drives us to pursue our goals despite setbacks.

Example: A salesperson who attends an industry conference (luck), has a strong understanding of their products (skill), and is persistent in following up with leads (will) is more likely to close deals.

Chapter 3: How to Create Your Own Luck

* Provides practical strategies for creating luck, such as networking, taking risks, and being open to serendipity.
* Explains the importance of building a strong support system and surrounding ourselves with positive people who can introduce us to new opportunities.
* Emphasizes the need to be persistent and not give up on our goals, even when faced with adversity.

Example: A job seeker who reaches out to their LinkedIn connections (networking), attends industry events (taking risks), and remains positive during the search (serendipity) is increasing their chances of finding their dream job.

Chapter 4: The Science of Luck

* Explores the scientific research on luck and how it can be influenced.
* Discusses the role of chance, randomness, and the "butterfly effect," where small actions can have significant consequences.
* Introduces the concept of "lucky streaks" and how they can be cultivated through positive thinking and action.

Example: A researcher who accidentally discovers a new breakthrough while conducting an unrelated experiment (chance) may experience a "lucky streak" if they follow up on their discovery with enthusiasm and dedication (positive thinking and action).

Chapter 5: The Power of Luck in Business and Relationships

* Examines the role of luck in business success and provides examples of companies and individuals who have benefited from serendipitous encounters.
* Explores the importance of building networks, taking calculated risks, and being open to partnerships that can lead to unexpected opportunities.
* Discusses how luck can also play a role in finding a romantic partner and building strong relationships.

Example: A small business owner who meets a potential investor at a social gathering (luck) and then partners with the investor to expand their business (skill and will) is demonstrating the power of luck in the business world.

Chapter 6: The Luckiest People

* Identifies common traits among the luckiest people, including a positive attitude, an openness to new experiences, and a strong social network.
* Explains how lucky people tend to create their own luck by being proactive, taking risks, and surrounding themselves with supportive individuals.
* Emphasizes the importance of cultivating a mindset of abundance and believing in ourselves.

Example: A woman who wins a lottery jackpot (luck) but then invests her winnings wisely (skill) and uses her wealth to help others (will) is a prime example of someone who has both created and benefited from luck.