A few weeks ago, the New York Times Book Review ran an essay by A. O. Scott critiquing " books about, inspired by or making reference to Bruce Springsteen.' It was a good article for Bruce fans who don't mind their fandom one step removed from the music or for students of pop culture. But the coolest thing about the article was a response in this week's Letter's section from the Boss himself. I'd like to think he came across the essay during a leisurely read of the Sunday Times between playing with his kids and noodling a new song idea on the guitar.
Seems Bruce got a bit touchy about this canonization of his 'image' and I at least was glad to see it. As our musical icons are more and more dissected, analyzed, and categorized to death, it's good remember that, at some point back in time, Bruce was just a guy from down the shore.
Published: July 31, 2005
Greetings From Rumson, N.J.
To the Editor:
Regarding "The Boss Bibliography" (July 3), by A. O. Scott:
The merits of my music and performances over the last 30 years I gladly leave to the fans, critics and writers. On the subject of "image," however, I thought I might be able to provide some simple clarification.
The "saintly, man of the people" thing I occasionally see attached to my name is bull----. It was perhaps invented, like myself, by Jon Landau . . . or maybe by that high school kid somewhere who supposedly wrote "Blowin' in the Wind." Life, art and identity are, of course, much more complicated. How do I know? I heard it in a Bruce Springsteen song.
BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN
Rumson, N.J.
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