I know about the sweet home. I went to school with 'em boys, what became Lynyrd Skynyrd; I knew Allen Collins, the skinny girl-beautiful guitarist. I put Allen Collins in every travel piece I do. Travel writing is harrowing, going to Bermuda with a banjo on my knee.

In this quote, Padgett Powell reflects on his personal connections to Lynyrd Skynyrd, the famous Southern rock band, by mentioning that he went to school with the band members, including Allen Collins, the renowned guitarist. Powell's reference to Allen Collins as the "skinny girl-beautiful guitarist" reflects a sense of familiarity and admiration for his musical talent. By saying, "I put Allen Collins in every travel piece I do," Powell is indicating how these personal experiences and connections are a recurring theme in his writing, particularly in his travel pieces.

Powell's mention of travel writing being "harrowing" suggests that he finds the profession both physically and emotionally challenging. The phrase "going to **Bermuda with a banjo on my knee" is a playful reference to the famous song "Boil Them Cabbage Down," which mentions a banjo, symbolizing the contrast between the easygoing idea of a vacation destination and the struggles or difficulties he experiences in his profession. The image of a banjo on his knee evokes the theme of travel intertwined with the personal and emotional burdens that come with it.

The quote reflects Powell's unique perspective on the intersection of his personal history, his connection to music, and his career as a writer. He weaves his past experiences with the members of Lynyrd Skynyrd into his writing, giving his travel pieces a more personal and authentic touch. His allusion to the "harrowing" nature of travel writing suggests that while it may seem glamorous or carefree, the reality of documenting experiences involves much more complexity and effort.

Ultimately, Padgett Powell’s quote blends nostalgia for his past with musical connections and his unique perspective as a travel writer. It highlights how personal relationships, such as his history with the members of Lynyrd Skynyrd, influence the way he approaches his craft, while also revealing the challenges inherent in the profession of travel writing.