"List of the Lost" by Morrissey

978-0-141-98296-0 Penguin Books (British Import)

Without a doubt, and clearly, one of the oddest literary works by a pop singer ever.   It is really beyond the category of good or bad.  On one level, it's brilliant.  The truth is if this book was or is simply OK, then that would be a crime against both artificial and real nature.   While reading this, the name Ed Wood Junior comes to mind.  In that, it's a work by an artist who follows no rules except their own.   On one level, it's brilliant that he's working with Penguin, and knows its history quite well.   The cover and design of this book are genius-like.   But how does he arrange to get a book like this released to the world - and within the Penguin empire?

"List of the Lost" is like no other book.   It truly goes beyond even taste.   For me, it is probably the most Morrissey-like work, in that he has a platform where Morrissey discusses all his obsessions such as vintage AmericanTV shows, and politics.  Since the narrative takes place in the 70s there are American politics, but it reads from the point-of-view of a foreigner.  Although the narrative takes place in Boston, it is really that country called "Morrisseyland."   It's not the United Kingdom, Europe, and for sure, not really America.  Yet, it's interesting how Morrissey looks at American culture.  In his style, he re-invents the U.S. culture to suit his own aesthetic.  And this is what makes him a real genius.   I know he's annoying at times, but like the boy with the thorn in his side, he's endlessly fascinating.    And although this book is beyond pain or pleasure, it is truly a work of this man.  The truth is I love Morrissey.