Classified as 'Research Essential' by Baker & Taylor YBP Library Services A Yankee Book Peddler UK Core Title for 2011 'Making excellent use of material from the Woody Guthrie Foundation and Archives in New York, this book examines Woody’s image, his songwriting, his politics and his friendships. In the process, a few myths are questioned and some new dimensions of his life and work are revealed. The result is a welcome portrait of Woody as a twentieth century figure with much to offer to the twenty-first. The book serves as an excellent introduction to Guthrie’s work as well as providing unexpected perspectives even for those of us who thought we knew all about him.' Dave Laing, Institute of Popular Music, University of Liverpool, UK '... a welcome addition to the scholarly literature. It should especially interest students of American folk music and American culture... Recommended.' Choice 'The contributors to this fantastic edited volume effectively answer the questions posed by Jorge Arévalo Mateus in the foreword: "What is the source of Guthrie's enduring cultural value? Why are artists and academics alike drawn to the mythology and reality of his life and times?". Using recent and traditional analytical frameworks from a variety of disciplines, these scholars unpack Guthrie's expressive practices, iconicity, and political aesthetics. This volume ushers in a new generation of scholarship in "Guthrie Studies". This book would be helpful in both undergraduate classes and graduate seminars. Classes that focus on the formation of artist identities, twentieth-century American popular music, the Dust Bowl, music and migration, and Bob Dylan would find many articles in this volume enlightening.' Journal of Folklore Research 'In every sense an excellent book, exciting, surprising and enlightening!' Folker ’This collection of essays contains a considerable wealth of information about Woody Guthrie: his music, his political principles, and his life and work