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Reviews (2)
11 May 2008
Only this, but more than this.
The tale of Yakov Bok seems to be a narrative of universal suffering that seems all to familiar. A Russian, Jewish peasant has no joy in his life. He has no education or trade. Worst of all his wife appears barren and runs off with a stranger. Then Yakov is imprisoned by anti-Semitic forces of the State for a gruesome,sickening murder that he had no part in. He inhabits the bleakest of worlds.
He reads The Old Testament, The New Testament, and agnostic tracts by Spinoza. Through these life influences he comes to better understand the meaning of the individual-even though he is powerless as an agent of change. He sees in humankind a connectedness based on validation, respect, and love. He gives what he has-even if it may be only his footprint in history. Excellent and thought provoking.
07 July 2008
Like Occam's Razor
2 of 2 found this helpful Often the simplest explanation for a phenomena is the truest one. In the recording, Van Morrison does what he has always done best-stright up blue eyed soul. Included are the relevant lyrics and tight backing from musicians and vocalists. Included in this back to basics theme is a message of sobriety and living in the day. Not his all-time best but still better than most.