Full Description
Pioneering the field of Springsteen scholarship when it first appeared in 1997, Born in the U.S.A. remains one of the definitive studies of Springsteen's work and its impact on American culture. Moving beyond journalistic and biographical approaches, Jim Cullen situates the artist in a wider historical canvas that stretches from the Puritans to Barack Obama, showing how he has absorbed, refracted, and revitalized American mythology, including the American Dream, the work ethic, and the long quest for racial justice. Exploring difficult questions about Springsteen's politics, he finds a man committed to both democratic and republican principles, as well as a patriot dedicated to revealing the lapses of a country he loves.
This third edition of Born in the U.S.A. is fully revised and updated, incorporating discussion of Springsteen's wide output in the 21st century. While addressing Springsteen's responses to events like 9/11, it also considers the evolution of his attitudes towards religion, masculinity, and his relationship with his audience. Whether a serious Springsteen fan or simply an observer of American popular culture, Born in the U.S.A. will give you a new appreciation for The Boss.
Contents
A Springsteen Chronology
Introduction
Chapter 1: Republicans and Republicans: Reagan and Springsteen at Center Stage
Chapter 2: Democratic Character: Springsteen and the American Artistic Tradition
Chapter 3: Realms of Kings: Springsteen and the American Dream
Chapter 4: Born in the U.S.A.: Springsteen and the Weight of War
Chapter 5: The Good Life: Springsteen's Play Ethic
Chapter 6: Man's Job: Springsteen's Masculinity
Chapter 7: God and Bruce Springsteen
Conclusion
Acknowledgments
Notes
Index
