The Literature of Rock and Roll
In this course, we will study how the mass culture of rock and roll music, and its impact on our lives, is interpreted by key critics and musicians. By reading and discussing several novels set in the rock world and several works of non-fiction about the lives of rock musicians, we will find ways to integrate our own tastes and obsessions with popular music. Short papers, group projects, and close analysis of the texts will be required. DVD documentaries and music will be played on a weekly basis.