"Earth Song: Inside Jackson's Magnum Opus" was authored by Huffington Post writer and academic scholar Joseph Vogel, who teaches literature at the University of Rochester. The emotive power in Vogel's distinctive writing style reveals a coupling of both literary criticism and spiritual exegesis, a rare and potent combination! Vogel succeeds in illuminating Jackson's music, lyrics, and performance by leading us through a fascinating journey from inception to completion of the artist's creative process. Vogel's language synthesizes for the reader carefully researched biographical information, insightful musical explication, as well as spiritual thought.

I appreciate the way the author establishes Jackson, not only as a musical savant, but also positions him as a fine artist of stature among a constituency of greats. This innovative approach challenges the reader to expand his or her understanding of the artist's work and of his significant place in cultural history. I also appreciate Vogel reminding us of Jackson's tragic struggle against fate in the classic Greek or Shakespearean sense. A close reading of Vogel's piece offers a revelatory experience for fans and scholars alike. It also provides Jackson with a respect and fairness that is long overdo. This book is a groundbreaking exegesis on the artistry and humanitarian message inherent Jackson's iconic "Earth Song," and will go far to eradicate the cruel and duplicitous writings of prior authors and journalist. ( )