Bob Dylan announced the upcoming release of a new book entitled The Philosophy Of Modern Song. The legendary artist’s first new tome since 2004’s Chronicles, Volume One is due out via Simon & Schuster on November 8.
The Nobel laureate started work on what is described as a “master class on the art and craft of songwriting” in 2010. Bob prepped 60 essays for The Philosophy Of Modern Song breaking down compositions by other musicians, including Hank Williams, Stephen Foster, Elvis Costello and Nina Simone. The collection also features 150 photos and “a series of dream-like riffs.”
“[Dylan] analyzes what he calls the trap of easy rhymes, breaks down how the addition of a single syllable can diminish a song, and even explains how bluegrass relates to heavy metal. These essays are written in Dylan’s unique prose,” explains a press release heralding the book’s upcoming release. “They are mysterious and mercurial, poignant and profound, and often laugh-out-loud funny. And while they are ostensibly about music, they are really meditations and reflections on the human condition. Running throughout the book are nearly 150 carefully curated photos as well as a series of dream-like riffs that, taken together, resemble an epic poem and add to the work’s transcendence.
“The publication of Bob Dylan’s kaleidoscopically brilliant work will be an international celebration of songs by one of the greatest artists of our time,” noted Jonathan Karp, President and Chief Executive Officer of Simon & Schuster, in a press release. “The Philosophy of Modern Song could only have been written by Bob Dylan. His voice is unique, and his work conveys his deep appreciation and understanding of songs, the people who bring those songs to life, and what songs mean to all of us.”
Bob Dylan kicked off the second leg of a tour in support of his 2020 studio album Rough And Rowdy Ways last week in Phoenix. He brings the Rough And Rowdy Ways World Wide Tour 2021-2024 to Irving, Texas on Thursday night.
‘The Philosophy Of Modern Song’ cover
