METALLICA AND PHILOSOPHY ; A CRASH COURSE IN BRAIN SURGERY
William Irwin
The Blackwell Philosophy & Pop Culture Series




I started listening to Metallica in my teens shortly after the release of RTL. I even quoted Motorbreath in my high school yearbook. At the time listening to Metallica and 'acting like a maniac' is what came natural to me. Who would have ever thought I was such an existentialist? I always felt a deep connection to their music, but at that time I didn't even know what philospohy really meant. Metallica's lyrics provoked my thoughts and the raw power of their music just always felt right to me. So if you were like me, you didn't get into Metallica to be philosophical. That's not what we were about. I first picked up this book hoping that philosopy would validate the music of my youth. But as I got into it I soon remembered that I didn't listen to Metallica for anyone's approval. Back in the day I could care less what 'other people thought' about most things. And in the end I realized that it's not Philosphy that validates the music. Metallica's lyrics, their music, and most importantly their fans are what validate Philosophy. Somehow I think we knew that all along. This book was an enjoyable read and helped me realize important things about myself and the music that I love. If you're story is similiar to mine, go ahead and 'Jump in the Fire'. You won't be disappointed with this book. [Guldna / Amazon]