New book reveals John Lydon is Rotten at the core

His Irish roots spring up regularly in John Lydon’s autobiography, fuelling his anger, but the affable ex-Sex Pistol also has fiery reserves for others, writes Ed Power

JOHN LYDON would like it known he’s a peacemaker not a fighter. That’s the message the self-proclaimed thorn in the side of the British establishment seeks to convey in his rollicking, rambunctious new autobiography and a theme he returns to throughout our conversation. Heaven help you, however, if you get on the wrong side of the artist previously known as Johnny Rotten — or dare steer the interview towards avenues he’d rather not venture down.