Yadin-Israel, who normally teaches classes on early rabbinic literature, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and Jewish mysticism, told Rutgers Today that he's switching his focus to the Boss because his lyrics are underpinned with theological stories. And because “Born to Run” KICKS ASS.
“Theologically, I would say the most dominant motifs are redemption — crossing the desert and entering the Promised Land — and the sanctity of the everyday,” Yadin-Israel said. “Springsteen tries to drag the power of religious symbols that are usually relegated to some transcendent reality into our lived world. In his later albums he also writes very openly about faith.”
Nothing in this story is surprising. I'm yet to meet anyone from New Jersey who dislikes Springsteen—the state's governor goes in fucking trances during his concerts—and, yeah, Rutgers would be the place to elevate him to messianic status. The course is limited to 20 students. Get your transfer papers in now.
[H/T: MSN]
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