``I have never wanted simply to tell my own story. But I have tried here to attend to a wide range of feelings . . . aspects of my struggle to discover what beauty really is,'' says the creative force behind the rock group The Who in the introduction to this strange, compelling collection of poetry and prose. In his quest, Townshend uncovers family, friends, ambition, addiction, infidelity, obsession, and life on the road. References to horses provide a theme that appears to be part obsession, part allegory. Particularly haunting is ``Champagne on the Terraces,'' an insight into alcoholism and family life. In addition to being a sometimes disguised autobiography of a very important figure in rock, this is also intriguing experimental writing packed with vivid imagery. For rock collections and large public libraries, where fans may demand it. Susan Avallone, ``Library Journal''

the living force behind The Who,is considered one of the most influencial musicians and composers of the rock era.

He lives in London.