Cometbus #42: Double Duce

a novel from Aaron Cometbus. His characters ponder life's mundane questions with the seriousness of ancient philosophers: How to get by on no money, where to scam free photocopies, and the finer points of dumpster diving are the subjects of endless conversations.

A collection of anecdotes from Aaron Cometbus.

This book is simple reading but its genuine heart is captivating. Cometbus's punk lifestyle is, for the most part, pretty miserable and, by his own admission, fucked up. Yet the feelings of this book shine through, no doubt because of Cometbus's simple style.

Things may be pretty messed up for the residents of Double Duce but ultimately there's always a light at the end of the tunnel and it's nice to be able to share the highs and lows of Cometbus and his pals throughout this book: whether it’s about Cometbus’s vinyl records being melted in the oven, or the time the DD residents went to off to steal the change thrown into a fountain.

Great stories that were a pleasure to read.

Like a punk rock Kerouac. Aaron has been publishing his Cometbus zine forever - way back in the 80s even. Chronicling his many road trips, punk shows, love affairs, and historical explorations these books narrate a vision that has all the right priorities. Start with Double Duce. Then read everything else you can find. -Steve