Black Sabbath and Philosophy: Mastering Reality (The Blackwell Philosophy and Pop Culture Series)

Mixed but interesting book. I've always enjoyed deconstructions or philosophical analysis of subject matter that would not normally be considered for such, but should be. Whether it's the genre fiction of writers like H. P. Lovecraft or John Le Carre, the musical continuities of composers like Frank Zappa, or the thematic overlaps of film directors like Stanley Kubrick, it's always gratifying to see a favorite get their due.



Each "chapter" is actually a stand-alone essay written by a different person. This has its pros and cons. On the plus side, if one doesn't grab you, there is always a different one coming. And you do not have to suffer through a single agenda from start to finish. The negatives would be the usual expected from any collection of different writers. Some articles seem to labor to make their point, stretching things to a credibility breaking point, but that is not uncommon in these sorts or works.



One should not fear, however, that this book is some kind of excruciating analysis of Sabbath lyrics, going through song after song, stating obvious observations, quoting lyrics at great length, etc. I detest those sorts of books. This one generally gives the reader credit with being familiar with the songs, or at least can make an interesting point about them without a plot synopsis, which is just wasted space for fans. Articles also range far afield, covering things like the ethical dilemmas of retaining the band's name on recordings after most original members have left, Schopenhauer and Sabbath, and the often redemptive quality of the band's songs, plus many other topics.



There are not many serious books on Sabbath or metal groups in general. A few of the articles disappointingly suffer from the usual sub-par, superficial writing of most rock criticism, and while the "philisophy" connections are sometimes just not there, there is enough of interest that should appeal to both Sabbath and thoughtful metal fans, and those looking for something off the beaten path in pop culture analysis. As the owner of every Sabbath album up to Born Again, I enjoyed it, and the price is right. A tip of the hat to all those involved.