The late Layne Staley’s lost journals are set to be published in November this year, but not everyone is looking forward to reading them.
The book, titled ‘This Angry Pen: The Lost Journals of Layne Staley’, is described as “a window into the emotional depths of a man who gave so much of himself to his art and his fans, even as he struggled with his own battles.”
Alongside words from his journals, the book will feature a collection of poetry, artwork, fan tributes, lyrics, photos and more. The description of the book reads: “Layne’s inner thoughts and emotions come to life, offering a glimpse into the mind of a musical genius who defined a generation.”
“My god, no privacy even when it’s almost a quarter of a century of your passing,” one fan wrote on Reddit. "Yeah, exploitation for a buck," another agreed.
“Wow that’s f*cked up, did the same shit with Kurt,” said a third, referencing the publication of Nirvana singer Kurt Cobain's alleged suicide note.
Some were more conflicted about the upcoming release. “As much as I’d love to learn more about Layne I don’t feel good about this," one person wrote.
The book, inclusive of personal writings, artwork and photographs that Staley worked on prior to his death, is intended to show a never before seen personal and creative side to the legend.
The book promises the chance to “experience the love and admiration" of Staley's fans, expressed through fan art that "honours his legacy".
Despite strong opinions flying around, an authorised release has come out.
The author went on to confirm in the comments that the release has been given the blessing by Staley’s mother, Nancy MacCallum.
Comments on this post are more positive:
Grateful for his mom sharing this special piece of Layne.
I am so excited.
Staley joined Alice in Chains in 1987, and his voice quickly became synonymous with the ‘Seattle Grunge Scene’, and then with alternative rock worldwide.
By 1996, the band fell into a rut as Staley's extensive drug use interfered with his career. Ultimately, he lost his battle with drug addiction on the 5th of April 2002, at just 34 years old.
Staley tried to find sobriety several times, with the aforementioned death of good friend Kurt Cobain acting as a brief catalyst, but Staley seemed unable to escape his demons.
In 1996, he told Rolling Stone: “Drugs worked for me for years and now they’re turning against me.”
I’ve had fans come up to me… telling me they’re high. That’s exactly what I didn’t want to happen.
‘This Angry Pen: The Lost Journals of Layne Staley’ is set for release on November 11, 2025, and is already available for pre-order.
