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A review by larsinio
Fear of Music by Jonathan Lethem
3.0
It's the best 33 1/3 book ive read so far. It probably has the most famous author as well.
This book is best described as a literary tribute to the album. Endless exposition and theory on its themes, but presented not in a logical fashion but in a liteary fashion. Ideas flow endlessly while the author speaks in his own voice as well. Its chaotic and in my opinion annoying to read.
But from what i hear, this is how Lethem's non-fiction characterized.
I did learn a bit about Byrne, the lyrical content, some of the composition, but very light on the songcraft aspect overall. Endless speculation of its lyrics, looking to understand this album as a concept album, amongst other open questions Lethem directly addresses to the viwer through his alter-ego teenage Brooklyn self in the early 80s.
Its a bit like a mind-dump of a stream of consciousness session turned into an album. But sometimes you dont want to drill into that too deep.
For how much Eno is sourced in the bibliography, i would have liked to have more discussion about his influence. It is hinted at here and there.
Ultimately, i dont know how much I actualyl learned, and how much is just Lethem's speculation. I think i need to read another book to correct any inaccuracies from this book. I think im going to stop reading any books from this series.
This book is best described as a literary tribute to the album. Endless exposition and theory on its themes, but presented not in a logical fashion but in a liteary fashion. Ideas flow endlessly while the author speaks in his own voice as well. Its chaotic and in my opinion annoying to read.
But from what i hear, this is how Lethem's non-fiction characterized.
I did learn a bit about Byrne, the lyrical content, some of the composition, but very light on the songcraft aspect overall. Endless speculation of its lyrics, looking to understand this album as a concept album, amongst other open questions Lethem directly addresses to the viwer through his alter-ego teenage Brooklyn self in the early 80s.
Its a bit like a mind-dump of a stream of consciousness session turned into an album. But sometimes you dont want to drill into that too deep.
For how much Eno is sourced in the bibliography, i would have liked to have more discussion about his influence. It is hinted at here and there.
Ultimately, i dont know how much I actualyl learned, and how much is just Lethem's speculation. I think i need to read another book to correct any inaccuracies from this book. I think im going to stop reading any books from this series.