Lives of the Poets (with Guitars) is a book inspired by a true love and appreciation of music - specifically rock 'n roll, roots, 60's pop, bluegrass, (and punk) music, in the case of these 'outsiders' - fueled by free wheeling literary knowledge, and the deep, poignant insights of Ray Robertson. Though the artist's progressions and the tragic arc their lives and careers tend to follow can be repetitious, each musician's story has something to say about life and living in the world they created within. Robertson does a great job of weaving quotes from authors and celebrities, first-hand accounts of the artists and wonderful descriptions of their music and its impact on his and other peoples lives with Lives of the Poets. This book is also a great playlist generator, and will make you appreciate and even love these artists even if you haven't heard their music. ( )

Not very interesting. Lacked some structural details such as an appendix with song titles that would have made it more useful as a reference. ( )