The Poetry of Blues [Samuel Charters]

[Blues] [Poetry] [Music]

The Poetry of Blues

Samuel Charters

Avon Books, NY. 1970. First Avon printing. Very minor chipping to edge of front cover, some wear to spine, yellowing throughout. An excellent copy.

From the publisher:

"Musicologist and writer Samuel Charters (1929–2015) considered blues lyrics a profound cultural expression that could connect all people who love poetry. A pioneer in the exploration of world music, Charters conducted research that brought obscure musicians of the American South and Appalachia into the mainstream. In this landmark volume, the noted blues historian and folklorist presents a rich exploration of blues songs as folk poetry, quoting lyrics by such legends as Son House and Lightnin' Hopkins at length to reveal the depth of feeling and complex literary forms at work within a unique art form."

Beautiful stuff. The blues is starting to fade into deep obscurity; the is a glorious document of it's immense cultural impact.