Syd's Breakdown - An Essay - Part 1

A Theory Concerning Syd Barrett's Breakdown - Part 1

   There have been a number of theories concerning what the heck was going on with Syd Barrett's head. There have been a number of theories blaming Schizophrenia, the LSD, the pressures of fame & feeling stifled. However, no one really could come to a set conclusion. One thing that struck me about Syd's breakdown was how it totally changed his personality, as if he taken over by pod aliens or something. Of course, pod aliens were not involved so one must come to something more realistic.
   Pre-breakdown Barrett was, by all accounts, a rather wild, fun, extroverted, showy, pretty party boy with amazing fashion sense. His bizarre eccentricities were a good thing...markedly different from the somber, depressed, isolated recluse he became. He went a full 180...eventually extending to his looks, as well...from ravishing beauty to doughy shorn-haired man.
   
   I'm going to take the approach of an "Armchair Psychiatrist". Keep in mind that I have no Psych training. Thus, this is but an educated guess from a fan...nothing more.

   On to Part 2....