Hip: The History

New York: Ecco Press; HarperCollins, 2004. 405 pages, illustrations; 24 cm. Near fine. Tight, clean copy. Remainder mark/tail edge. Fine DJ. "Hip: The History is the story of how American pop culture has evolved throughout the twentieth century to its current position as world cultural touchstone. How did hip become such an obsession? From sex and music to fashion and commerce, John Leland tracks the arc of ideas as they move from subterranean Bohemia to Madison Avenue and back again. Hip: The History examines how hip has helped shape -- and continues to influence -- America's view of itself, and provides an incisive account of hip's quest for authenticity. / John Leland is a reporter for the New York Times and former editor in chief of Details, and he was an original columnist at SPIN magazine. Robert Christgau of the Village Voice called him 'the best American postmod critic (the best new American rock critic period),' and Chuck D of Public Enemy said the nasty parts of the song 'Bring the Noise' were written about him. He lives in Manhattan's East Village with his wife, Risa, and son, Jordan." - Publisher.. 1st. Hardcover. Very Good/Fine. 8vo.