This is a collection of photos that sum up Paul McCartney's career, at least to me. What's interesting about these photos is that they all seem to show some inner intelligence by Paul at key moments in his life, as if he knew what he was about, and is trying to make a statement to posterity. It's kind of uncanny, the looks on his face, the settings he chooses, the freaking shirts he wears, who he allows himself to be photographed with. Just astonishing when put into historical perspective.

Paul with Stu Sutcliffe, who had the best photographer-feel of any of them. However, Paul was no slouch himself.

At Paul's Cavendish home early 1969.

In which photo, above or below, do you think Paul looks happier? In which is the woman present smiling? The two questions are related.

Again at Cavendish, now with Wings, 1972. Different time, different woman. A lot has changed, and nothing has changed.

Paul at the Apple launch 1968. Say cheese!

It's interesting that Paul is showing such an interest in photography right after meeting Linda. He rarely did ever again.

At the Concert for George, with Dhani Harrison, 2002.

The Concert for George is just amazing, perhaps the best all-star concert ever performed and filmed. Paul can't resist playing lead guitar even at George's funeral.

Recording RAM in 1971 with Linda.

Linda's main value as a songwriter was that she was not a party to the Beatles litigation and thus could collect her full songwriting payments without any garnishment or holds. This kept the couple afloat financially.

In India early 1968. "Isn't this something to remember," he seems to be saying to us.

With the Quarrymen circa 1959. Notice the shirt, we'll see it again below.

How much you want to bet that he still has that shirt, and he knows precisely where it is, and it is in immaculate condition? Also, in the photo below, do you agree that Paul looks astonishingly like Matthew Broderick from "Ferris Bueller"?

Same fellows, same Paul shirt, years later. An unbelievably cool nod to history and posterity that goes right over most fans' heads. Personally, I think Paul looks like Ferris Bueller in this shot.

In Nashville 1974 circa "Junior's Farm," having fun with the locals.

Paul with Linda at Sgt. Pepper launch, while still officially with Jane Asher. This is one of their first photos together.

2018