I just finished this slim volume and boy is it a gem of a book. Willie Nelson wrote this book about his life and his family and his philosophy of life. I first took notice of him when he came out in the 70’s with his Red Headed Stranger album (remember albums?) which I played over and over. Well that was over 40 years ago and you know Nelson is still making records and at 83 years of age has a very rigorous performance schedule.
Willie writing about himself is one thing but he includes little snippets from his friends, family, and fellow musicians writing about him. I thought that was great especially the vignette’s from his children from several different mothers. The other thing I really liked is the lyrics. He started out writing poetry when he was six years old and did that until he learned to play the guitar. His lyrics read like poems. One of the last songs he quotes is “Whatever Happened to Peace on Earth”
…We believe everything they tell us
They are going to kill us so we gotta kill them first
But I remember the commandment thou shalt not kill
How much is that soldier’s life worth
And what happened to peace on earth
Wow,
So I am not sure that I would like to hold up Willie Nelson’s life as one everybody should emulate but he has some things to say that are worth reading.
I always liked his music. I had no idea he had written a book. I would love to read it sometime.
Who doesn’t love Willie? (There are some I’m sure, but I don’t know if I’d want to know them well). He’s a one of a kind talent. I certainly wouldn’t even want to think about emulating him or living a life like his, probably needless to say, but that doesn’t keep me from enjoying his performances…. Didn’t know about the book and I’ll look for it, but right this minute I have to go to YouTube ….