Bon Iver: Music and Transcendentalism

In 1845, A young, twenty-something writer in the throes of disprized love, builds a cabin on his friend's property and produces a piece of writing of profound importance: Walden.

Henry David Thoreau

In 2007, a twenty-something struggling musician gets dumped by his girlfriend, quits his moderately popular band, and suffers a protracted bout of mononucleosis. He moves back home and stays in a cabin on his father's property. He produces an album of critical acclaim: For Emma, Forever Ago.

Justin Vernon

162 years later, we as Americans are fascinated by art created alone in the presence and influence of nature. 

When released in 2008, Bon Iver's (Vernon's name for his band/solo project) For Emma, Forever Ago created quite a critical sensation. The record is a perfect blend of melancholy and aching beauty.

Accolades aside, in many ways the sound of the record has been somewhat overshadowed by the story of its creation. In 2008, Vernon could not escape discussing the transcendentalist situation that shaped the creation of the record.

Spend some time with the album.

Your Task: In the comment section of this post, discuss why you feel that Americans continue to be fascinated by art created in the solitude of nature. Also, weigh in on the music: Do you like it? Explain. 

Responses are due before class, Monday, November 17th.