“In Kristofferson: 67 Astounding Songs, Richard Somma dives deep into the evocative world of one of country music’s most influential songwriters. This book is an insightful exploration of Kris Kristofferson’s lyrics, offering readers a unique perspective on his artistry. Somma’s analysis not only illuminates the genius behind Kristofferson’s work but also invites readers to experience his music on a deeper, more personal level. The book focuses on the intricate ways Kristofferson uses rhythm, tone, and repetition to amplify the emotional weight of his storytelling.” – Charnjit Gill, author of Pray Tell

Kristofferson: 67 Astounding Songs explores the depth and artistry of Kristofferson’s lyrics with a special focus on his masterful use of sound and repetition. His lyrics use rhythm and tone to shape stories—heightening a character’s anger, joy, or excitement, slowing a line for impact, or driving it forward with urgency. The characters he brings to life are authentic, often grappling with thorny predicaments, and his signature wit shines throughout.

For each song, Richard Somma offers his interpretation—not as a definitive answer, but as a starting point to inspire readers to find their own meanings. Richly illustrated, this book aims to bring Kristofferson’s music to life in a new way. Above all, Somma’s greatest hope is that readers will find new appreciation and enjoyment in Kristofferson’s remarkable songs.

Forty years a fan of Kris Kristofferson, yes I am. And yes, for forty-eight years, a happy math teacher down to the very last equation² where 2 is no footnote in a world of exponents. But, But. Somewhere in my late thirties, Bread Loaf School of English took me in to their wayward-soul four-year summer program. There, Ken Macrorie and David Huddle turned me into a confident writer with an eye for appreciating great writing in others. That is where Kris Kristofferson fits in. I never get tired of hearing Kris Kristofferson – his music, his singing (all right, his gruff singing), his humor. And especially his incomparable way of putting words together, even inventing words like “oftener” along the way. Writing about his writing for the last three years or so made “feelin’ good easy, ” as he puts it in “Me and Bobby McGee. ”