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Crazy Heart
“ Crazy Heart just might be the finest country-western novel ever written, bar none.” — Houston Post "A masterpiece. . . . Cobb has created an unforgettable character who engages not only your interest but your emotion . . . and who proceeds to take you on a roller-coaster ride through his tawdrily tumultuous life.” — Chicago Tribune Thomas Cobb’s riveting novel tells the unforgettable story of a former country music star hoping to take one last shot at a better life. At the age of fifty-seven—living a life riddled with ex-wives, one night stands, and daily diet of Jack Daniels—Bad Blake is on his last legs. His ticker, his liver, even his pick-up truck are all giving him trouble. A renowned songwriter and “picker” who hasn’t recorded in five years, Bad now travels the countryside on gigs that take him mostly to motels and bowling alleys. Enter Jean Craddock, a young journalist sent to interview him after a beautiful concert, and a tentative romance blooms. Can Bad stop living the life of a country-western song and tie a rope around his crazy heart?
248 pages, Paperback
First published December 31, 1987
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About the author
Thomas Cobb
83 books66 followersBrutal and deft, laced with both violence and desire, Shavetail plunges into the deepest of human urges."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
October 27, 2022
Oct 27, 8am ~~ Review asap.
2pm ~~ Well, this novel marks the end of my country western mini marathon. After reading the autobiographies of Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson, I could not resist Crazy Heart, which was inspired by the life of another country singer, Hank Thompson. I had never heard of this book or of the movie inspired by it.
Bad Blake is the middle aged country singer here, a man who has seen his better days but still loves the music and still feels that spark that comes from being in front of a live audience. We tag along with him through a tour and then a few months back home in Houston. He remembers the days he had a bus, but now he drives himself in a van and uses whatever band is available at the various bars and clubs where he plays.
Bad is, of course, the classic raw country boy who became a star. I was entirely caught up in the story, even if I did get lost in some of the technical descriptions of guitar playing style and music theory. There is not really all that much of such topics, but it does show up when he begins to write songs and also when he has the 'battle' with a wannabe star guitar player in one of the backup bands. Music is basically math, and when I read about it in that format I get more than a little glassy eyed. lol
Here is a bit about Hank Thompson, courtesy of Wiki:
Thompson pursued a "light" version of the Western swing sound that Bob Wills and others played; the primary difference between his music and that of Bob Wills was that Thompson, who used the swing beat and instrumentation to enhance his vocals, discouraged the intense instrumental soloing from his musicians that Wills encouraged; however, the "Hank Thompson sound" exceeded Bob Wills in top-40 country hits.
Although not as prominent on the top country charts in later decades, Thompson remained a recording artist and concert draw well into his 80s.
The 1987 novel Crazy Heart by Thomas Cobb was inspired by Thompson's life, specifically by his practice of picking up a local band to back him when he toured. In 2009, Cobb's novel was turned into a successful film directed by Scott Cooper and starring Jeff Bridges in an Academy Award-winning performance."
I was rooting for Bad all through the book, hoping he would get himself turned around from that low point where we first meet him. But there were a few things I didn't care for, and as much as I enjoyed the story, I cringed every time a certain word was used, not to mention becoming disappointed with the bigotry that eventually showed up as being an essential part of our main character's character.
I guess that allowed me to not get too upset about the final chapters.
2pm ~~ Well, this novel marks the end of my country western mini marathon. After reading the autobiographies of Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson, I could not resist Crazy Heart, which was inspired by the life of another country singer, Hank Thompson. I had never heard of this book or of the movie inspired by it.
Bad Blake is the middle aged country singer here, a man who has seen his better days but still loves the music and still feels that spark that comes from being in front of a live audience. We tag along with him through a tour and then a few months back home in Houston. He remembers the days he had a bus, but now he drives himself in a van and uses whatever band is available at the various bars and clubs where he plays.
Bad is, of course, the classic raw country boy who became a star. I was entirely caught up in the story, even if I did get lost in some of the technical descriptions of guitar playing style and music theory. There is not really all that much of such topics, but it does show up when he begins to write songs and also when he has the 'battle' with a wannabe star guitar player in one of the backup bands. Music is basically math, and when I read about it in that format I get more than a little glassy eyed. lol
Here is a bit about Hank Thompson, courtesy of Wiki:
Thompson pursued a "light" version of the Western swing sound that Bob Wills and others played; the primary difference between his music and that of Bob Wills was that Thompson, who used the swing beat and instrumentation to enhance his vocals, discouraged the intense instrumental soloing from his musicians that Wills encouraged; however, the "Hank Thompson sound" exceeded Bob Wills in top-40 country hits.
Although not as prominent on the top country charts in later decades, Thompson remained a recording artist and concert draw well into his 80s.
The 1987 novel Crazy Heart by Thomas Cobb was inspired by Thompson's life, specifically by his practice of picking up a local band to back him when he toured. In 2009, Cobb's novel was turned into a successful film directed by Scott Cooper and starring Jeff Bridges in an Academy Award-winning performance."
I was rooting for Bad all through the book, hoping he would get himself turned around from that low point where we first meet him. But there were a few things I didn't care for, and as much as I enjoyed the story, I cringed every time a certain word was used, not to mention becoming disappointed with the bigotry that eventually showed up as being an essential part of our main character's character.
I guess that allowed me to not get too upset about the final chapters.
February 7, 2018
I realized the other day that despite having loved the movie and actually owning a copy of the book, I'd never read it. So I did. It's wonderfully written, and fascinating in its depiction of the world of country music. BUT SO SAD.
June 1, 2013
I hadn't really planned on reading this when I did. Yes, Thomas Cobb's novel was on my seemingly endless 'to be read' list as soon as I saw the "based on a novel by..." in the credits rolling at the end of the terrific film adaptation, but I don't own a copy. I chanced upon it when browsing the audiobook shelves in my local library and, noticing that it was narrated by the author, thought it would make an excellent accompaniment to the rush hour commute. (I guess that Jeff Bridges wasn't available!)
Audiobooks aren't usually narrated by their authors so I thought that would be interesting as well, after all, nobody should really get the phrasing and timing as right as the person who created those words, right? Well, at first I was conscious of my own mind repeating over and over "...he's not Jeff Bridges, he's not Jeff Bridges...". Bridges plays the story's protagonist Otis 'Bad' Blake in the film, and very deservedly won the 2009 American Academy award for Best Actor. Bridges is also one of my favourite actors anyway, and I really loved the film, so it was always gonna be a tough comparison to measure up to...
Bad Blake is a tired and aging Country musician - "a singer and a picker" - whose star has been steadily fading for quite a few years now. He's been reduced to hitting the road out of his home town of Houston to cover the west's dive bars, bowling alleys, and assorted ropey old joints to make a living. He's become used to playing with sub-standard pick-up bands and sleeping off the night before through the air-conditioned motel room mornings. His trusty old van has seen better days, his agent posts meagre cash advances in towns 2 days away, and with four failed marriages behind him, there's nobody waiting for him back at home. Bad is out of shape and out of condition, and he is an unreformed alcoholic. I love the character that Thomas Cobb created. He feels real. He has a voice that you want to listen to. Yes he can be curt on occasion, and does feel a bit sorry for himself, but he's basically a good guy who is looking back on a life in the business with more than a few regrets. It doesn't have to be the music business, but I like writers who can create such authentic characters. People with their fair share of flaws, people with a bit of grit.
This is on one level a touching love story. While gigging through Sante Fe, Bad is interviewed for the local paper by Jean Craddock - a thirtysomething single mum of 4 year old Bud. Jean, cautious and understandably guarded at first, eventually falls for the undeniable charm that Bad still has. But, as ever in life, things are far from straightforward. Bad has a 24 year old son of his own that he's not seen since he was about little Bud's age - Jean persuades him to consider reaching out. Bad has a connection or two with the press in Houston and suggests Jean come over to visit and check her options...
In the background all the while Bad suffers what he feels is the indignity of needing to sell song compositions to his one time sideman Tommy Sweet - now a big stadium filling star performer. But Tommy hasn't written a hit record of his own for a while, and needs Bad's magic touch when it comes to penning a chart-topper. Bad on the other hand hasn't had a record of any description for many years now and is practically pleading with Tommy , through very gritted teeth, to commit to an album of duets that could resurrect his career. He really needs it. Laid up injured following a road accident caused by not enough sleep, and inspired by his muse Jean, Bad writes two soulful songs that have 'hit' written all over them - "She's Gonna Need Someone To Walk To" and "Is This Gonna Hurt Again?". Through all this there is Bad's obvious dependence on drinking.
Everything is thrown into sharp relief when Jean and Bud finally come to visit Bad over in Houston. Bad's been preparing the ground for weeks... There follows some experiences there that illuminate things once and for all, for all concerned, and the story of Crazy Heart twists and turns a few times before meeting its moving and poignant ending.
Obviously the book has several chapters and scenes in it that didn't make it to the film adaptation. There are frequent flashback scenes of Bad's past - days on the road as a young man, as a boy growing up in Judy, Indiana, his time as a famous star of Country when he was rich and gave away Cadillacs to strangers, his marriages - especially his second to the mother of his son Stephen. All of which go some way to considerably building the life of Bad Blake in the reader's mind. Cobb's story is essentially a doomed love story of an alcoholic. It is not really a story about Country music per se, but it is about people and relationships and lives. That though of course, would be what Country music really is anyway - Bad himself would certainly have it that way, he says more or less the same in his first interview with Jean in his clammy hotel room - so perhaps Cobb did write a Country novel after all? Where this book is really elevated above the level of the ordinarily 'decent' or 'accomplished' though, is with the author's superb realisation of Bad Blake. I've tried in a feeble way to highlight some of the flavour of that characterisation. It is what makes this a very memorable novel. I recommend it to all who love a good story, well told.
Audiobooks aren't usually narrated by their authors so I thought that would be interesting as well, after all, nobody should really get the phrasing and timing as right as the person who created those words, right? Well, at first I was conscious of my own mind repeating over and over "...he's not Jeff Bridges, he's not Jeff Bridges...". Bridges plays the story's protagonist Otis 'Bad' Blake in the film, and very deservedly won the 2009 American Academy award for Best Actor. Bridges is also one of my favourite actors anyway, and I really loved the film, so it was always gonna be a tough comparison to measure up to...
Bad Blake is a tired and aging Country musician - "a singer and a picker" - whose star has been steadily fading for quite a few years now. He's been reduced to hitting the road out of his home town of Houston to cover the west's dive bars, bowling alleys, and assorted ropey old joints to make a living. He's become used to playing with sub-standard pick-up bands and sleeping off the night before through the air-conditioned motel room mornings. His trusty old van has seen better days, his agent posts meagre cash advances in towns 2 days away, and with four failed marriages behind him, there's nobody waiting for him back at home. Bad is out of shape and out of condition, and he is an unreformed alcoholic. I love the character that Thomas Cobb created. He feels real. He has a voice that you want to listen to. Yes he can be curt on occasion, and does feel a bit sorry for himself, but he's basically a good guy who is looking back on a life in the business with more than a few regrets. It doesn't have to be the music business, but I like writers who can create such authentic characters. People with their fair share of flaws, people with a bit of grit.
This is on one level a touching love story. While gigging through Sante Fe, Bad is interviewed for the local paper by Jean Craddock - a thirtysomething single mum of 4 year old Bud. Jean, cautious and understandably guarded at first, eventually falls for the undeniable charm that Bad still has. But, as ever in life, things are far from straightforward. Bad has a 24 year old son of his own that he's not seen since he was about little Bud's age - Jean persuades him to consider reaching out. Bad has a connection or two with the press in Houston and suggests Jean come over to visit and check her options...
In the background all the while Bad suffers what he feels is the indignity of needing to sell song compositions to his one time sideman Tommy Sweet - now a big stadium filling star performer. But Tommy hasn't written a hit record of his own for a while, and needs Bad's magic touch when it comes to penning a chart-topper. Bad on the other hand hasn't had a record of any description for many years now and is practically pleading with Tommy , through very gritted teeth, to commit to an album of duets that could resurrect his career. He really needs it. Laid up injured following a road accident caused by not enough sleep, and inspired by his muse Jean, Bad writes two soulful songs that have 'hit' written all over them - "She's Gonna Need Someone To Walk To" and "Is This Gonna Hurt Again?". Through all this there is Bad's obvious dependence on drinking.
Everything is thrown into sharp relief when Jean and Bud finally come to visit Bad over in Houston. Bad's been preparing the ground for weeks... There follows some experiences there that illuminate things once and for all, for all concerned, and the story of Crazy Heart twists and turns a few times before meeting its moving and poignant ending.
Obviously the book has several chapters and scenes in it that didn't make it to the film adaptation. There are frequent flashback scenes of Bad's past - days on the road as a young man, as a boy growing up in Judy, Indiana, his time as a famous star of Country when he was rich and gave away Cadillacs to strangers, his marriages - especially his second to the mother of his son Stephen. All of which go some way to considerably building the life of Bad Blake in the reader's mind. Cobb's story is essentially a doomed love story of an alcoholic. It is not really a story about Country music per se, but it is about people and relationships and lives. That though of course, would be what Country music really is anyway - Bad himself would certainly have it that way, he says more or less the same in his first interview with Jean in his clammy hotel room - so perhaps Cobb did write a Country novel after all? Where this book is really elevated above the level of the ordinarily 'decent' or 'accomplished' though, is with the author's superb realisation of Bad Blake. I've tried in a feeble way to highlight some of the flavour of that characterisation. It is what makes this a very memorable novel. I recommend it to all who love a good story, well told.
September 25, 2011
This was an excellent novel for being the author's first attempt at the medium. A good chunk of it was translated directly to the film, though there are several key differences that change the book enough from the movie that one wants to keep reading each new chapter because, despite having a vague idea of where the thing will end up (and the end, as is often the case, is quite a bit different from the movie), there are still plenty of surprises, including a lot more back story (told in the form of flashbacks, reminiscences, and dreams). Also, the novel was published in 1987, so that's the present day in the book. This affects the timeline of the main character's (Bad Blake) novel incarnation vs. the character portrayed by Jeff Bridges, in that the book puts him as a young man in a different period in country music history than would have been possible in the movie (a 57 year old musician in 1987 could plausibly have opened for Hank Williams, as Bad does in one flashback scene...a 57 year old musician in 2010 would have been an infant when Hank died). This isn't a perfect novel, but for a first novel it's pretty impressive, and it's definitely worth the time it would take to go through 248 imminently readable pages.
August 24, 2011
I'm interested to view the movie after reading this book. In my opinion, this novel is no masterpiece. I liked the country and western element. I thought the voice of Bad was a geniune portrayal of a rough-cut country man, but the book had no real plot. So, there was this washed-up, has been country singer.......And? I mean, basically the book details his shitty alcoholic behavior. I have read that before.
The ending was.......drab. I don't know. I didn't hate it, I finished, so that is where I get the two star rating.
I only read Crazy Heart after a coworker recommended it. Even without seeing the film, I can't imagine Maggie Gyllenhaal, or however the fuck you spell her name, as Jean. What a strange casting choice, but maybe she pulls it off? With that said, Jeff Bridges sounds perfect. I can see why his performance was Oscar worthy just based on casting. Perfect.
The ending was.......drab. I don't know. I didn't hate it, I finished, so that is where I get the two star rating.
I only read Crazy Heart after a coworker recommended it. Even without seeing the film, I can't imagine Maggie Gyllenhaal, or however the fuck you spell her name, as Jean. What a strange casting choice, but maybe she pulls it off? With that said, Jeff Bridges sounds perfect. I can see why his performance was Oscar worthy just based on casting. Perfect.
February 28, 2010
I read or reread books before I see their film adaptations, and so I chose this one when I saw Jeff Bridges would star as Bad Blake.
My hopes for Bad would rise and fall as I followed him on his self-destructive course. Many times he seemed powerless to grab what was rightfully his, as when he'd finally write a new song and have its best proceeds go to an undeserver just because that's how the system worked. I really wanted him to realize his talent and dreams again, and especially to find a family to love, but it was pretty clear that four wrecked marriages were a record hard to break.
The ending of this book is pretty desolate; I kept thinking about what it had to say about whether we necessarily deserve our fates. It has stayed with me; I keep wanting someone else to tell me I read it wrong .. that it turned out all right!
My hopes for Bad would rise and fall as I followed him on his self-destructive course. Many times he seemed powerless to grab what was rightfully his, as when he'd finally write a new song and have its best proceeds go to an undeserver just because that's how the system worked. I really wanted him to realize his talent and dreams again, and especially to find a family to love, but it was pretty clear that four wrecked marriages were a record hard to break.
The ending of this book is pretty desolate; I kept thinking about what it had to say about whether we necessarily deserve our fates. It has stayed with me; I keep wanting someone else to tell me I read it wrong .. that it turned out all right!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2010
This may be a first novel, but MAN can this guy write. Bad Blake is like a character from a McMurtry novel. Highest praise.
October 25, 2025
Crazy Heart, based on the novel by Thomas Cobb
A different version of this note and thoughts on other books are available at:
- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list... and http://realini.blogspot.ro/
Crazy Heart is an acclaimed film.
It won two Academy Awards, including one for:
- Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role, for Jeff Bridges.
A Golden Globe rewarded the same actor.
Indeed, Jeff Bridges, or Jeffrey Leon Bridges comes from a family of actors:
Son of Lloyd Bridges and brother of Beau Bridges.
Jeffrey Leon can play any role with equal talent and charisma
He has been a rough cowboy in True Grit and a free spirit, funny liberal in The Big Lebowsky.
I rather prefer characters in the mold of The Dude.
In fact, the character he plays in Crazy Heart has something rather repulsive.
He is Bad Blake, a country singer past his prime.
Bad Blake does justice to his nickname.
He drinks way too much and has been a bad man.
Bad Blake has not called his son in twenty four years!
At one point, in order to get alcohol he loses the boy he was responsible for.
Having highlighted some of the serious issues with the hero, one must add that he is an artist.
His creativity is famous and acclaimed.
Tommy Sweet is played by Colin Farrell.
He is also a country singer, who had been launched by Bad Blake.
We learn that the two had been supposed to work together, only for Tommy to abandon ship.
He says that he wanted to save his marriage.
Tommy Sweet is at the peak of his career and would pay -does - pay good money for songs created by the gifted former mentor.
Bad Blake is reduced to opening the concert of his former pupil.
Fifty seven years old, the singer is forced to perform in bars mostly.
He comes on stage drunk and nauseating.
But there is hope.
And it comes in the attractive form and shape of Jean Craddock, portrayed excellently by Maggie Gyllenhaal.
The actress was nominated for an Oscar for this role.
- I once listened to The Bell Jar read by her.
- And it was pure magic.
Jean is the niece of a piano player that sings with Bad Blake.
And she wants an interview with the former star.
After the second part of this session of questions and some answers, the two see that they are attracted to each other.
The romance would offer both hope.
Jean has a son and the boy has not seen but a few men.
The young woman feels lonesome.
And the only way for the alcoholic, sick man is down.
Without a major change that is.
Jean could change all that.
But old habits die hard they say.
Furthermore, after a car accident that highlighted the poor health of the country singer, a doctor gives him few options:
You need to stop smoking and drinking.
And you need to lose twenty five pounds
Otherwise, a heart attack, cancerous something else will kill you.
- What will Bad Blake do?
- Well, he keeps smoking and drinking...
There is a familiar attempt with AA.
This film has been highly praised by the critics for good reason.
A different version of this note and thoughts on other books are available at:
- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list... and http://realini.blogspot.ro/
Crazy Heart is an acclaimed film.
It won two Academy Awards, including one for:
- Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role, for Jeff Bridges.
A Golden Globe rewarded the same actor.
Indeed, Jeff Bridges, or Jeffrey Leon Bridges comes from a family of actors:
Son of Lloyd Bridges and brother of Beau Bridges.
Jeffrey Leon can play any role with equal talent and charisma
He has been a rough cowboy in True Grit and a free spirit, funny liberal in The Big Lebowsky.
I rather prefer characters in the mold of The Dude.
In fact, the character he plays in Crazy Heart has something rather repulsive.
He is Bad Blake, a country singer past his prime.
Bad Blake does justice to his nickname.
He drinks way too much and has been a bad man.
Bad Blake has not called his son in twenty four years!
At one point, in order to get alcohol he loses the boy he was responsible for.
Having highlighted some of the serious issues with the hero, one must add that he is an artist.
His creativity is famous and acclaimed.
Tommy Sweet is played by Colin Farrell.
He is also a country singer, who had been launched by Bad Blake.
We learn that the two had been supposed to work together, only for Tommy to abandon ship.
He says that he wanted to save his marriage.
Tommy Sweet is at the peak of his career and would pay -does - pay good money for songs created by the gifted former mentor.
Bad Blake is reduced to opening the concert of his former pupil.
Fifty seven years old, the singer is forced to perform in bars mostly.
He comes on stage drunk and nauseating.
But there is hope.
And it comes in the attractive form and shape of Jean Craddock, portrayed excellently by Maggie Gyllenhaal.
The actress was nominated for an Oscar for this role.
- I once listened to The Bell Jar read by her.
- And it was pure magic.
Jean is the niece of a piano player that sings with Bad Blake.
And she wants an interview with the former star.
After the second part of this session of questions and some answers, the two see that they are attracted to each other.
The romance would offer both hope.
Jean has a son and the boy has not seen but a few men.
The young woman feels lonesome.
And the only way for the alcoholic, sick man is down.
Without a major change that is.
Jean could change all that.
But old habits die hard they say.
Furthermore, after a car accident that highlighted the poor health of the country singer, a doctor gives him few options:
You need to stop smoking and drinking.
And you need to lose twenty five pounds
Otherwise, a heart attack, cancerous something else will kill you.
- What will Bad Blake do?
- Well, he keeps smoking and drinking...
There is a familiar attempt with AA.
This film has been highly praised by the critics for good reason.
November 7, 2011
Hot damn that was unexpected! For I think the first time, I am uncertain whether I like the book or the movie better....
I was interested in reading this because I saw the movie when it came out, then realized it was based on a book. I always like to read the book a movie is based on because the narration gives us so much more information that the visual representation. This was true with Crazy Heart also, but what I was not expecting was the surprise ending. The movie had had a good ending also. I liked it because it wasn't the Hollywood "And They All Lived Happily Ever After" ending. Granted, the book doesn't have the Hollywood ending either, and I do appreciate how it ends, but it was a big surprise.
Crazy Heart is the story of Bad Blake, a country singer past his prime who is trying to get back on top. He is battling emphysema, alcoholism, and a big load of guilt for things that he did in the past. The writing is very, very good. It is honest and I believe we get a very fair image of Bad's -or almost any over-the-hill country singer's- harsh lifestyle. This is not the idyllic image of living on a farm, raising a loving family and singing songs around a campfire. Instead, there is life on the road, smoking, drinking, sex and foul language. The writing is gritty, but at times is also very humorous. I had a good laugh as Bad tried to exercise along with "the sissy" on tv. He also reserves the grease from his pork chops to make gravy, which he pours over his mashed potatoes, but he adds a salad to the meal because he has convinced himself that he needs to start a diet. I'm sure I had a smile on my face when I read that.
The story unfolds very nicely. Bad is doing a small tour, mostly of dingy bars and bowling alleys. He meets a younger woman, Jean, who he starts to think seriously about. (This is a man who has already been married four times. His reason for marrying one of his wives was that she was a whiner and he thought she would stop whining if he married her. Hilarious. I wonder why it didn't work out...) The romance hits several speed bumps, like when Bad is supposed to visit her and she stays up all night waiting for him. It turns out he fell asleep at the wheel, had an accident and is in the hospital with a broken ankle. But the biggest hurdle is the alcohol, since Jean has an impressionable four-year-old son, Buddy (whose character is very well written, by the way.) Bad eventually goes into rehab, but can he make it?
This is a very good story. I don't want to give away the ending, either of the book or of the movie, but I did learn that the book ending actually was a deleted scene from the movie. I saw that scene and thought that it had been a good idea to leave it out of the movie. In the end, I think I like the book and the movie equally, but I would encourage everyone to judge for themselves.
I was interested in reading this because I saw the movie when it came out, then realized it was based on a book. I always like to read the book a movie is based on because the narration gives us so much more information that the visual representation. This was true with Crazy Heart also, but what I was not expecting was the surprise ending. The movie had had a good ending also. I liked it because it wasn't the Hollywood "And They All Lived Happily Ever After" ending. Granted, the book doesn't have the Hollywood ending either, and I do appreciate how it ends, but it was a big surprise.
Crazy Heart is the story of Bad Blake, a country singer past his prime who is trying to get back on top. He is battling emphysema, alcoholism, and a big load of guilt for things that he did in the past. The writing is very, very good. It is honest and I believe we get a very fair image of Bad's -or almost any over-the-hill country singer's- harsh lifestyle. This is not the idyllic image of living on a farm, raising a loving family and singing songs around a campfire. Instead, there is life on the road, smoking, drinking, sex and foul language. The writing is gritty, but at times is also very humorous. I had a good laugh as Bad tried to exercise along with "the sissy" on tv. He also reserves the grease from his pork chops to make gravy, which he pours over his mashed potatoes, but he adds a salad to the meal because he has convinced himself that he needs to start a diet. I'm sure I had a smile on my face when I read that.
The story unfolds very nicely. Bad is doing a small tour, mostly of dingy bars and bowling alleys. He meets a younger woman, Jean, who he starts to think seriously about. (This is a man who has already been married four times. His reason for marrying one of his wives was that she was a whiner and he thought she would stop whining if he married her. Hilarious. I wonder why it didn't work out...) The romance hits several speed bumps, like when Bad is supposed to visit her and she stays up all night waiting for him. It turns out he fell asleep at the wheel, had an accident and is in the hospital with a broken ankle. But the biggest hurdle is the alcohol, since Jean has an impressionable four-year-old son, Buddy (whose character is very well written, by the way.) Bad eventually goes into rehab, but can he make it?
This is a very good story. I don't want to give away the ending, either of the book or of the movie, but I did learn that the book ending actually was a deleted scene from the movie. I saw that scene and thought that it had been a good idea to leave it out of the movie. In the end, I think I like the book and the movie equally, but I would encourage everyone to judge for themselves.
December 3, 2018
Thomas Cobb’s first novel, Crazy Heart, is a beautiful irony that both celebrates the rise and fall (or vice versa perhaps) of a country musician’s life through a realistic but reckless portrayal of the modern American West.
Its film adaptation with the same title was one of the films which had given me hope back then. Arriving in Manila in 2015, I began hunting the best reads in various Book Sale branches—and I found and bought the novel for Php 90—less than $2 only. Only that time I realized I had witnessed the adaptation first than the original text.
In the film, the story himself Bad Blake redeemed his way after losing the glamour of his country musicianship, though not a major comeback to the music scene yet sober enough to live better than before he was on the road dropping hits with drugs, women, alcoholism and divorces following each trail. Cobb’s original story—or the whole concept of Crazy Heart re-surfaced beforehand now as divisive. Though in the book, the dialogue is as crisp as Texas, realistic and sympathetic, it was still rather reckless that Cobb’s writing was insensitive to the ‘n’-word. America’s political calamity also showed a glimpse, again, though realistic, Cobb should have put his foot on the brake and re-evaluated if he was stereotyping the 20th century American West, or this is the truth for him—the way we spoke, the way we lived—no matter what.
The film is heartbreakingly beautiful, and would still fill the void of my heartless heart given the chance to watch it again. In spite that it is very rare to see adaptation eclipsing the original, Crazy Heart shines in both media—with the novel as substantially good—an country song-homage to the American West. The film is beyond that.
Its film adaptation with the same title was one of the films which had given me hope back then. Arriving in Manila in 2015, I began hunting the best reads in various Book Sale branches—and I found and bought the novel for Php 90—less than $2 only. Only that time I realized I had witnessed the adaptation first than the original text.
In the film, the story himself Bad Blake redeemed his way after losing the glamour of his country musicianship, though not a major comeback to the music scene yet sober enough to live better than before he was on the road dropping hits with drugs, women, alcoholism and divorces following each trail. Cobb’s original story—or the whole concept of Crazy Heart re-surfaced beforehand now as divisive. Though in the book, the dialogue is as crisp as Texas, realistic and sympathetic, it was still rather reckless that Cobb’s writing was insensitive to the ‘n’-word. America’s political calamity also showed a glimpse, again, though realistic, Cobb should have put his foot on the brake and re-evaluated if he was stereotyping the 20th century American West, or this is the truth for him—the way we spoke, the way we lived—no matter what.
The film is heartbreakingly beautiful, and would still fill the void of my heartless heart given the chance to watch it again. In spite that it is very rare to see adaptation eclipsing the original, Crazy Heart shines in both media—with the novel as substantially good—an country song-homage to the American West. The film is beyond that.
April 1, 2012
Bad Blake is an unforgettable character, an alcoholic, broken down, crusty country singer totally on the downswing. He's had some successes in life but mainly, he's struggled. He has attempted redemption many, many times over the years, but he keeps failing to turn his life around. He's sympathetic but most of the time, you just want to kick his ass for being such a predictable and grizzled old lout.
There are interesting dynamics between him and his former protege Tommy Sweet which is a focal point of the story. At times it's hard to figure what happened with the two of them, or who is at fault for the strained relationship, if anybody. Another storyline is Bad's burgeoning romance with a young journalist who is also a single mother. It's hard to figure what she sees in him but whatever it is, it serves to give Bad hope once again. The event that becomes their undoing is very unsettling and realistically presented, and makes for some particulary genuine moments in the book. As for the ending, I think it was befitting the Bad Blake character. It was not uplifting, but it was gritty and very real.
There are interesting dynamics between him and his former protege Tommy Sweet which is a focal point of the story. At times it's hard to figure what happened with the two of them, or who is at fault for the strained relationship, if anybody. Another storyline is Bad's burgeoning romance with a young journalist who is also a single mother. It's hard to figure what she sees in him but whatever it is, it serves to give Bad hope once again. The event that becomes their undoing is very unsettling and realistically presented, and makes for some particulary genuine moments in the book. As for the ending, I think it was befitting the Bad Blake character. It was not uplifting, but it was gritty and very real.
August 18, 2020
3 1/2 stars
There's not too much literary analysis available for "Crazy Heart." I liked it a lot and was dragged along enough by its plot that I read it in two sittings. What is worth mentioning is Cobb's ability with characters. Bad is a very well-constructed character. While sad, and ultimately a bit pathetic, his towering attribute is his ability to be nice and kind in all situations. No matter what he's thinking, he's open to input and he's sweet and generous with everybody that he meets. Also, Tommy. Tommy Sweet blew me away in the film version and he is almost as good here. We are conditioned to be skeptical of people and to believe that they will only give what they are forced to but he surprises again and again by honestly remembering the help he received on his way to the top and being determined to repay it. The female characters fell a little short (I just couldn't get to the point where it made any sense that Jean would be interested in having anything to do with Bad) and the departure to meet his son was a miss but ultimately, this was a worthwhile read
There's not too much literary analysis available for "Crazy Heart." I liked it a lot and was dragged along enough by its plot that I read it in two sittings. What is worth mentioning is Cobb's ability with characters. Bad is a very well-constructed character. While sad, and ultimately a bit pathetic, his towering attribute is his ability to be nice and kind in all situations. No matter what he's thinking, he's open to input and he's sweet and generous with everybody that he meets. Also, Tommy. Tommy Sweet blew me away in the film version and he is almost as good here. We are conditioned to be skeptical of people and to believe that they will only give what they are forced to but he surprises again and again by honestly remembering the help he received on his way to the top and being determined to repay it. The female characters fell a little short (I just couldn't get to the point where it made any sense that Jean would be interested in having anything to do with Bad) and the departure to meet his son was a miss but ultimately, this was a worthwhile read
February 8, 2010
Crazy Heart by Thomas Cobb is about this washed up country singer named 'Bad' Blake. Bad Blake has been on the road doing concerts in bowling alleys and bars, while on the road he finds romance.Unfortunately, he also has some vices to deal with.
Read the rest of my review here
Read the rest of my review here
July 10, 2017
Slow start but I couldn't put it down for the last 100 pages. Loved and hated Bad Blake. Really the perfect character.
June 30, 2023
Oh man, this one came out of nowhere. I picked it up in some used bookstore or other after remembering a movie had come out about a decade or so ago. I love Jeff Bridges and thought I'd give the book a try first. Not something I'd normally reach for (frankly, it seemed a little too male-centric for my taste), but I strive to maintain an open mind, and I'm glad I gave it a shot.
As another review stated, there's not a ton of literary analysis to be taken from "Crazy Heart"; it's mostly just a rags-to-riches-to-rags story, but a few things struck me: the author's use of motif to illustrate an overarching theme (the prime example of which is Bad's cumbersome cast weighing him down to symbolize his alcoholism), and the decision to make Bad a somewhat unreliable narrator. Throughout the story, we are led to believe some characters are bad or duplicitous, but as the story wears on, the reader comes to understand the extent of Bad's alcoholism and how it touches every aspect of his life. His self worth, relationships, social interactions, physicality, etc. are all affected impermeably, and the reader realizes this is not simply a story, but a cautionary tale. Tommy Sweet is a good person, Jean is not a savior, and Bad is a troubled addict. None of them are concepts or beacons; they are simply people.
The optimist in me still imagines a happy epilogue, but judging on what's there, I think the story is all the more poignant. The road comes at a mean price - is Bad a master or a victim of it?
As another review stated, there's not a ton of literary analysis to be taken from "Crazy Heart"; it's mostly just a rags-to-riches-to-rags story, but a few things struck me: the author's use of motif to illustrate an overarching theme (the prime example of which is Bad's cumbersome cast weighing him down to symbolize his alcoholism), and the decision to make Bad a somewhat unreliable narrator. Throughout the story, we are led to believe some characters are bad or duplicitous, but as the story wears on, the reader comes to understand the extent of Bad's alcoholism and how it touches every aspect of his life. His self worth, relationships, social interactions, physicality, etc. are all affected impermeably, and the reader realizes this is not simply a story, but a cautionary tale. Tommy Sweet is a good person, Jean is not a savior, and Bad is a troubled addict. None of them are concepts or beacons; they are simply people.
The optimist in me still imagines a happy epilogue, but judging on what's there, I think the story is all the more poignant. The road comes at a mean price - is Bad a master or a victim of it?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2019
This is a character study of an aging, washed-up country music singer who is playing out the string and trying to find a way back to his previous star status. The boozing and womanizing are a bit of a cliche but it’s a great character portrayal and a good story just the same. This 1987 book inspired a 2009 film by the same name; the movie Is more romanticized with the book having a harder edge and, in my opinion, a more realistic finish. The characters and the words drip with the smell of Jack Daniels and the sound of country music as aging “Bad Blake” cranks up for one more try at the brass ring.
September 21, 2017
the writing is wonderful, the characters have a distinct voice. it's kinda sad and kinda hopeless, though. I'm glad I read it but I'm probably not gonna read it again.
March 17, 2021
I read this book years ago because I heard the movie was good. I did enjoy it. Simple but a good country/cowboy one. A little Johnny Cash style in there.
August 28, 2023
A bit like a microwave dinner — solid surrounding (beginning, end) but cold middle.
Movie is better, in my view.
Movie is better, in my view.
March 24, 2022
A fairly honest love letter to when country music was any damn good.
March 9, 2010
For language and sexual content, I would mostly only recommend this to adults. I think after that, it's got a very specific type of person who will like it. I think thos book is for those that like country music, extra sympathetic or empathetic people, those that have ever had alcohol problems. I also think that it will be appreciated by those that know how to appreciate good, honest writing.
What I Have to Say:
Crazy Heart is, essentially, the story of the downfall of the one-time famous country singer, Bad Blake. It is one of the most brutally honest books I have read. Period. Bad Blake, a chain-smoking raging alcoholic who has done a lot of bad in his life, has trouble with relationships, and has suffered more than your average person, comes across as sympathetic and authentic. He's got problems, and his circumstances are not typical, but he's really just a nice guy trying to get by.
I think it is a testament to Thomas Cobb that he was able to turn such a screw-up into an amazingly deep and confused character with whom the readers will ultimately sympathize and possibly even feel sorry for, despite the fact that all of his problems were brought on by himself. There were times when I wanted to reach out and give Bad a hug. And steal all of his alcohol and cigarettes. But then, I would have been afraid that he'd grope me while I was trying to console him. When it comes to most things in life, he tries so hard, but he just doesn't get it.
In a way, this book is like the country songs it is about. It is straightforward and genuine, and there is nothing (or very little) hiding in the cracks or underneath the surface. It is beautiful and twangy and will absolutely break your heart (and leave it up to you to put it back together), but it will have you laughing and loving along the way. And that's why, despite the fact that I only ENJOYED this book while reading it (i.e. I didn't absolutely adore it), I would still go so far as to call this book brilliant. It IS country, and it gives such an honest portrayal of what life on the road must be like, about the drugs and alcohol and women that come along with being a country singer, that it's hard to believe it might not be based on a true story. Bad Blake is not just someone I once read about in a book, he is someone I knew and cared about once upon a time.
Because of the constant drinking and smoking and LANGUAGE, I wouldn't recommend this book to a younger crowd. It is adults only. And even for all its brilliance, I don't think it's for all adults. I can see how some people might have trouble relating to or sympathizing with Bad Blake, despite how solidly Thomas Cobb describes his suffering.
So it's hard to say. I want to say I highly recommend this, because, as I said, I thought it was brilliant. But if, in the end, you don't sympathize with Bad Blake, you might find it lacking in life.
What I Have to Say:
Crazy Heart is, essentially, the story of the downfall of the one-time famous country singer, Bad Blake. It is one of the most brutally honest books I have read. Period. Bad Blake, a chain-smoking raging alcoholic who has done a lot of bad in his life, has trouble with relationships, and has suffered more than your average person, comes across as sympathetic and authentic. He's got problems, and his circumstances are not typical, but he's really just a nice guy trying to get by.
I think it is a testament to Thomas Cobb that he was able to turn such a screw-up into an amazingly deep and confused character with whom the readers will ultimately sympathize and possibly even feel sorry for, despite the fact that all of his problems were brought on by himself. There were times when I wanted to reach out and give Bad a hug. And steal all of his alcohol and cigarettes. But then, I would have been afraid that he'd grope me while I was trying to console him. When it comes to most things in life, he tries so hard, but he just doesn't get it.
In a way, this book is like the country songs it is about. It is straightforward and genuine, and there is nothing (or very little) hiding in the cracks or underneath the surface. It is beautiful and twangy and will absolutely break your heart (and leave it up to you to put it back together), but it will have you laughing and loving along the way. And that's why, despite the fact that I only ENJOYED this book while reading it (i.e. I didn't absolutely adore it), I would still go so far as to call this book brilliant. It IS country, and it gives such an honest portrayal of what life on the road must be like, about the drugs and alcohol and women that come along with being a country singer, that it's hard to believe it might not be based on a true story. Bad Blake is not just someone I once read about in a book, he is someone I knew and cared about once upon a time.
Because of the constant drinking and smoking and LANGUAGE, I wouldn't recommend this book to a younger crowd. It is adults only. And even for all its brilliance, I don't think it's for all adults. I can see how some people might have trouble relating to or sympathizing with Bad Blake, despite how solidly Thomas Cobb describes his suffering.
So it's hard to say. I want to say I highly recommend this, because, as I said, I thought it was brilliant. But if, in the end, you don't sympathize with Bad Blake, you might find it lacking in life.
June 28, 2018
I'm not sure "Crazy Heart" is an honest-to-god masterpiece, but it's pretty close. Cobb beautifully captures the feel of an old country western song. "Crazy Heart" is a tragedy that sneaks up on the reader and lingers. The tragedy's main actor is Bad Blake, a thoroughly likable former country star, now touring bars and bowling alleys when he's not at home in Houston playing with his bar band. He's the quintessential picture of fading glory. Bad's been married and divorced multiple times, he's made and lost a fortune, but his lingering possessions appear to be some serious health problems and an addiction to alcohol he'll never shake. He's hopeless when the book begins, but then he meets a young newspaper reporter, Jean, who renews his sense of promise. Bad takes to Jean and her son, Buddy, and the three form an unlikely bond. Bad is still famous enough, with enough charm, to make his pairing with Jean believable. But she should know better, and that's where the tension creeps into "Crazy Heart." Because you can't teach an old dog new tricks, or in this case to stop smoking and drinking and cheating. There's a glimmer of hope, a chance at salvation. Bad's connection with Buddy causes him to seek out his own son after years apart, and Bad starts writing music again, something he'd given up long ago. The reader roots for him as though he were an aging athlete giving it one last go. In fact, there are some interesting parallels between this book and Malamud's "The Natural." Malamud's book is a tragedy as well, with the theme that no matter the level of talent, youth overtakes age. With "Crazy Heart" the theme seems to be that if you keep making the same mistakes over and over, they calcify into habits that can't be changed. It's interesting to me, though not surprising, that Hollywood fiddled with the ending of both books to make them more uplifting. In "The Natural," Roy Hobbs hits the homer that knocks the lights out, and in "Crazy Heart" Bad finds success with his former bandmate and pupil, Tommy, whereas Tommy plays a background role in the novel. Literature has no need for Hollywood endings. And I would definitely call this literature. Cobb's prose is restrained, never showy, without a misplaced word, and his ear for dialogue is impeccable. Each character springs to life instantly. And the last few pages are devastating. The only miscues are minor ones: the true extent of Bad's alcoholism doesn't reveal itself until late in the book, threatening to overwhelm the broader theme of mistakes and missed connections. There's also a subplot about a barmaid and an angry biker that goes nowhere. But "Crazy Heart" is nevertheless a heartfelt, genuine book. For what it's worth, I thought the filmmakers and actors of the movie version stayed true to Cobb's book. I thought they caught the texture of it perfectly, and it was impossible for me to read "Crazy Heart" without picturing and hearing Jeff Bridges. He truly inhabited the character of Bad Blake.
November 26, 2018
https://m7raby.wordpress.com/2018/11/...
تحكي رواية “قلب مجنون” لـ توماس كوب، عن موسيقي مشهور “باد بلايك” والذي يعزف الموسيقى الريفية الشعبية ويعتبر واحد من أهم رموز الغناء المحلي حينها، إلا أنه وعلى الجانب الآخر يعيش حياة تكتنفها الكثير من الأسى والعقبات ابتداء من زيادة وزنه وتدخينه المفرط للسجائر وإدمانه على الكحول، ومشاكله في الحفاظ على أي علاقة إنسانية، انتهاء بمشاكله في البحث عن ابنه وبين كل هذه الخطوط تقبع الكثير من الأنماط الحياتية السيئة والخاطئة.
تم انتاج فيلم مقتبس من الرواية سنة 2009، من إخراج سكوت كوبر وأدى جيف بريدجز دور “باد بلايك”، حيث كان أداءه لامع وتحس وكأن شخصية باد بلايك قد جسدت من أجله، فكل حركاته وأقواله كانت تأتي بشكل عفوي، بينما يحاول التغلب على الكحول والموت.
أعجبت بإحدى الأغاني المعروضة في الفيلم، أغنية
Somebody Else
، التي يغني فيها بلايك لمعجبيه كنت في الماضي شخصاً مشهوراً، والآن أنا شخص آخر .
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0349...
تحكي رواية “قلب مجنون” لـ توماس كوب، عن موسيقي مشهور “باد بلايك” والذي يعزف الموسيقى الريفية الشعبية ويعتبر واحد من أهم رموز الغناء المحلي حينها، إلا أنه وعلى الجانب الآخر يعيش حياة تكتنفها الكثير من الأسى والعقبات ابتداء من زيادة وزنه وتدخينه المفرط للسجائر وإدمانه على الكحول، ومشاكله في الحفاظ على أي علاقة إنسانية، انتهاء بمشاكله في البحث عن ابنه وبين كل هذه الخطوط تقبع الكثير من الأنماط الحياتية السيئة والخاطئة.
تم انتاج فيلم مقتبس من الرواية سنة 2009، من إخراج سكوت كوبر وأدى جيف بريدجز دور “باد بلايك”، حيث كان أداءه لامع وتحس وكأن شخصية باد بلايك قد جسدت من أجله، فكل حركاته وأقواله كانت تأتي بشكل عفوي، بينما يحاول التغلب على الكحول والموت.
أعجبت بإحدى الأغاني المعروضة في الفيلم، أغنية
Somebody Else
، التي يغني فيها بلايك لمعجبيه كنت في الماضي شخصاً مشهوراً، والآن أنا شخص آخر .
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0349...
July 25, 2017
I loved this book. I loved the way I found myself in those smokey, smelly dives he played in and just as easily on the big stage. I loved the way I could hear the music and feel the thrill of those wild rides up and down the fret board. I loved the way I could sympathize with Bad, hate the guy for his selfish choices, and respect him for his generosity all at the same time! It doesn't even make sense, but I loved and hated the old SOB! Brilliantly written book and I will be looking for more Thomas Cobb in the future!
Read
March 24, 2020I stumbled upon this book at a thrift shop and decided to pick it up after remembering how much I liked the film. I thoroughly enjoy this, it's a pretty quick read. One of my hobbies is comparing book to their films. This book has a great scene where Bad tries to connect to his estranged son. This wasn't in the film; having grown up w/ an absent father I found this to be very interesting. Which did I like better? It's hard to say but I'm leaning towards the film if only for the music. Ryan Bingham, one of my favorites, sings the title track.
March 30, 2010
This was a realistic, gritty book about an alcoholic, down and out country singer in his mid-50's. There is no sugar coating in this book. That's OK, it shows the reality of alcoholism and its effect on one's life and the others around them. Well done.
April 4, 2010
I enjoyed this book. I found the main character to be talented and honest. Apart from the fact that I could only imagine Jeff Bridges as Bad, so how can you not like him!! But I was disappointed in the ending.
September 28, 2025
Crazy Heart by Thomas Cobb is a 2013 Harper Perennial publication. ( Originally published in 1987)
There is an acclaimed movie starring one of my favorite actors-Jeff Bridges- based on this book. I’ve never seen the movie though, because I kept thinking I’d like to read the book first. I noticed this book in the KU program, reminding me that if I didn’t get started on this book, I might never get around to watching the movie I’d heard so much about.
Well…
This book is extremely bleak. Realistic, sure- and that’s nearly always a good thing… nearly. While I don’t need a ‘Hollywood’ ending with every book, I do like to close a book with at least a smidgen of hope to grab onto.
The novel follows ‘Bad’ Blake, a washed-up country music star in rapid decline. He’s gone from filling arenas to playing in bowling alleys. He’s been married multiple times, is an alcoholic, smokes heavily, is overweight, and broke. It’s not pretty, but he keeps moving along…but with every step forward, there are many steps backward.
This book has been described as raw, and that would be an understatement. It’s a deep character study that examines a man who is deeply flawed, in a business that is ever evolving, that will chew you up, then spit you out when it’s finished using you, leaving you with nothing but deep regret and sorrow… but with a desire to recapture that elusive moment of exquisite star power again.
Bad’s main struggle is with the bottle. The story does not sugar coat the ravages of alcoholism. It is not glamorous. Blackouts, sickness, the shakes, broken relationships, separation from his only son, for starters. As his story unfolds, we learn his protégé, Tommy Sweet, surpasses him, becoming the star Bad once was, riding on his coattails the whole way.
The author makes plain this saga is also a matter-of-fact depiction of the music business in general- out with the old, in with the new- situation that leaves the old guard behind as a new crew of young artists come in with a different style. It’s a brutal, unsympathetic world, and since the story is based in part on a couple of real-life country music artists, it strips away the gloss of that world, leaving you with the plain truth- like it or not.
Because the story does not attempt to soften Bad’s image, or the nature of his business, the book is utterly depressing. As one struggles to find redemptive qualities in Bad, for me it was hard to not to root for him at times, but he certainly did not make that an easy task. Part of the problem for me was his casual use of racial slurs all throughout the novel. Again, the author is choosing to show the character as is- he’s not going to, as it the case these days, to soft-pedal the shamble of this man’s life. Take also into consideration the period the book is written and set in, but still, it truly took the book down a few notches for me, and there were a few moments in which I felt maybe I’d return this book to the KU library unfinished.
I also found it curious that at the end of the book is a slew of editorial reviews from some of the top newspapers in the country, written back when the book was first published and all of them were absolutely glowing. Realism as justification? Not sure how I feel about that and wonder how people would view that now.
For those who watched the movie, I cheated and looked it up to see if the movie had slurs, if the movie ended on such a somber note and naturally Hollywood doesn’t really work that way- which is good to know. Though, now, I don’t know if I’ll watch it… at least not for a long while.
Overall, not really what I was expecting. Good character profile and study- but super depressing.
2.5 stars
There is an acclaimed movie starring one of my favorite actors-Jeff Bridges- based on this book. I’ve never seen the movie though, because I kept thinking I’d like to read the book first. I noticed this book in the KU program, reminding me that if I didn’t get started on this book, I might never get around to watching the movie I’d heard so much about.
Well…
This book is extremely bleak. Realistic, sure- and that’s nearly always a good thing… nearly. While I don’t need a ‘Hollywood’ ending with every book, I do like to close a book with at least a smidgen of hope to grab onto.
The novel follows ‘Bad’ Blake, a washed-up country music star in rapid decline. He’s gone from filling arenas to playing in bowling alleys. He’s been married multiple times, is an alcoholic, smokes heavily, is overweight, and broke. It’s not pretty, but he keeps moving along…but with every step forward, there are many steps backward.
This book has been described as raw, and that would be an understatement. It’s a deep character study that examines a man who is deeply flawed, in a business that is ever evolving, that will chew you up, then spit you out when it’s finished using you, leaving you with nothing but deep regret and sorrow… but with a desire to recapture that elusive moment of exquisite star power again.
Bad’s main struggle is with the bottle. The story does not sugar coat the ravages of alcoholism. It is not glamorous. Blackouts, sickness, the shakes, broken relationships, separation from his only son, for starters. As his story unfolds, we learn his protégé, Tommy Sweet, surpasses him, becoming the star Bad once was, riding on his coattails the whole way.
The author makes plain this saga is also a matter-of-fact depiction of the music business in general- out with the old, in with the new- situation that leaves the old guard behind as a new crew of young artists come in with a different style. It’s a brutal, unsympathetic world, and since the story is based in part on a couple of real-life country music artists, it strips away the gloss of that world, leaving you with the plain truth- like it or not.
Because the story does not attempt to soften Bad’s image, or the nature of his business, the book is utterly depressing. As one struggles to find redemptive qualities in Bad, for me it was hard to not to root for him at times, but he certainly did not make that an easy task. Part of the problem for me was his casual use of racial slurs all throughout the novel. Again, the author is choosing to show the character as is- he’s not going to, as it the case these days, to soft-pedal the shamble of this man’s life. Take also into consideration the period the book is written and set in, but still, it truly took the book down a few notches for me, and there were a few moments in which I felt maybe I’d return this book to the KU library unfinished.
I also found it curious that at the end of the book is a slew of editorial reviews from some of the top newspapers in the country, written back when the book was first published and all of them were absolutely glowing. Realism as justification? Not sure how I feel about that and wonder how people would view that now.
For those who watched the movie, I cheated and looked it up to see if the movie had slurs, if the movie ended on such a somber note and naturally Hollywood doesn’t really work that way- which is good to know. Though, now, I don’t know if I’ll watch it… at least not for a long while.
Overall, not really what I was expecting. Good character profile and study- but super depressing.
2.5 stars
January 30, 2019
Fifty-seven year old "Bad Blake" is a country-western singer / songwriter in the twilight of his career. His body is beginning to give out from years of wild living and hard drinking. There's also the matter of his estranged, now grown son whom he hasn't seen since the guy was a little one of four. Put it all together and Blake has a life chock full of regrets he's usually trying to play down.
Blake hasn't released any new music in five years. Instead, his manager has him on a small peanuts tour of bowling alleys, motel lobbies and seedy bars across the country. It's at one such bar in Santa Fe, New Mexico that Blake meets Jean Craddock, (played by Maggie Gyllenhaal in the film) a journalist for the Sun Scene newspaper. She covers the music scene around town and is interested in doing a special write up on him while he's in town. Blake is instantly smitten with her and it doesn't take much convincing for him to agree to a series of interviews. Though Blake is in no rush to add another ex-wife to the roster, the more time he spends with Jean, the more he begins to feel that she might just be his last real chance at true love. Though he acknowledges that Jean is certainly the type of woman one wants to be better for, it turns out that old habits most certainly do die hard. Very hard.
Blake also gets an opportunity to get back in the big leagues when he's invited to do another collab / tour with Tommy Sweet (played by Colin Farrell in the film, who also does his own singing here), a singer Blake had mentored, even wrote material for, and then had a falling out with over their last project together. His songs he developed with Tommy are typically the only ones most in the crowds want to hear these days.
I've seen the film adaptation a few times of the years and each time minus the last had missed the fact that it was based off a book. Finally noticing this on the most recent viewing, I decided to finally seek out the book and see if I loved it anywhere near as much as the film. So here we are!
Truth be told, I liked the novel but no, it's nowhere near as brilliant as the film. While Blake is certainly an interesting character in both formats, there is SO much that Jeff Bridges brings to the screen... the book ends up feeling like a letdown. It's also not always the easiest read, as there are racist / homophobic characters , some sexually graphic jokes and a whole lotta profanity. Not necessarily out of character for the country western bar environment, but often cringey to say the least.
If you're going to pick one or the other to try, definitely go with the film. Bridges does his own singing! Watching him bring Bad Blake to life on screen is almost as if The Cowboy (from The Big Lebowski, also starring Bridges) morphed into The Dude... Crazy Heart's opening scene even takes place in a bowling alley!
Blake hasn't released any new music in five years. Instead, his manager has him on a small peanuts tour of bowling alleys, motel lobbies and seedy bars across the country. It's at one such bar in Santa Fe, New Mexico that Blake meets Jean Craddock, (played by Maggie Gyllenhaal in the film) a journalist for the Sun Scene newspaper. She covers the music scene around town and is interested in doing a special write up on him while he's in town. Blake is instantly smitten with her and it doesn't take much convincing for him to agree to a series of interviews. Though Blake is in no rush to add another ex-wife to the roster, the more time he spends with Jean, the more he begins to feel that she might just be his last real chance at true love. Though he acknowledges that Jean is certainly the type of woman one wants to be better for, it turns out that old habits most certainly do die hard. Very hard.
Blake also gets an opportunity to get back in the big leagues when he's invited to do another collab / tour with Tommy Sweet (played by Colin Farrell in the film, who also does his own singing here), a singer Blake had mentored, even wrote material for, and then had a falling out with over their last project together. His songs he developed with Tommy are typically the only ones most in the crowds want to hear these days.
I've seen the film adaptation a few times of the years and each time minus the last had missed the fact that it was based off a book. Finally noticing this on the most recent viewing, I decided to finally seek out the book and see if I loved it anywhere near as much as the film. So here we are!
Truth be told, I liked the novel but no, it's nowhere near as brilliant as the film. While Blake is certainly an interesting character in both formats, there is SO much that Jeff Bridges brings to the screen... the book ends up feeling like a letdown. It's also not always the easiest read, as there are racist / homophobic characters , some sexually graphic jokes and a whole lotta profanity. Not necessarily out of character for the country western bar environment, but often cringey to say the least.
If you're going to pick one or the other to try, definitely go with the film. Bridges does his own singing! Watching him bring Bad Blake to life on screen is almost as if The Cowboy (from The Big Lebowski, also starring Bridges) morphed into The Dude... Crazy Heart's opening scene even takes place in a bowling alley!
June 4, 2024
Thomas Cobb's Crazy Heart, published in 1987, fell out of print until the 2009 movie starring Jeff Bridges as Cobb's protagonist, Bad Blake (for which he won an Academy Award as Best Performance by an Actor). Cobb's luminous novel rightfully regained interest after the film was released.
Cobb successfully manages the intricate dance of creating a character who is deeply, tragically flawed yet who retains the ability to be likeable and sympathetic. Bad, who hesitates to reveal his true name, is a gifted musician, a song writer, singer, and guitarist. He travels the country playing local bars and even bowling alleys, using pick-up bands at each venue. This is now. In the past, he was a highly respected, relatively wealthy, successful artist, but not quite achieving the top tier of stardom. As his past is slowly revealed in flashbacks and dreams, we come to know how far he has fallen.
Years ago, Bad mentored the now famous Tommy Sweet, who offers him a chance to record together once again. But Bad doesn't want to be a sideman to somewhat to whom he taught the ropes of the business and whose talent he cultivated and encouraged.
With with a raft of bad marriages behind him and a son whom he hasn't seen in decades, can Bad make up for his many mistakes, find absolution, and gain salvation with new love?
Crazy Heart utilizes several music/Western tropes, but Cobb is smart, savvy, and has the talent to endow his characters with unique qualities that rise far above common storylines. Despite a couple of missteps (An reunion with an old friend and a conversation between Bad and an important person from his past are awkward and don't ring true), the dialogue is natural, crisp, and realistic.
Cobb's story is a deep dive into the dissolution of a lifelong alcoholic. It is not an easy read, but it is beautifully written.
Highly recommended.
(I experience a personal thrill in learning that Thomas Cobb, years after I was a student, taught my major subject at the college from which I graduated).
Cobb successfully manages the intricate dance of creating a character who is deeply, tragically flawed yet who retains the ability to be likeable and sympathetic. Bad, who hesitates to reveal his true name, is a gifted musician, a song writer, singer, and guitarist. He travels the country playing local bars and even bowling alleys, using pick-up bands at each venue. This is now. In the past, he was a highly respected, relatively wealthy, successful artist, but not quite achieving the top tier of stardom. As his past is slowly revealed in flashbacks and dreams, we come to know how far he has fallen.
Years ago, Bad mentored the now famous Tommy Sweet, who offers him a chance to record together once again. But Bad doesn't want to be a sideman to somewhat to whom he taught the ropes of the business and whose talent he cultivated and encouraged.
With with a raft of bad marriages behind him and a son whom he hasn't seen in decades, can Bad make up for his many mistakes, find absolution, and gain salvation with new love?
Crazy Heart utilizes several music/Western tropes, but Cobb is smart, savvy, and has the talent to endow his characters with unique qualities that rise far above common storylines. Despite a couple of missteps (An reunion with an old friend and a conversation between Bad and an important person from his past are awkward and don't ring true), the dialogue is natural, crisp, and realistic.
Cobb's story is a deep dive into the dissolution of a lifelong alcoholic. It is not an easy read, but it is beautifully written.
Highly recommended.
(I experience a personal thrill in learning that Thomas Cobb, years after I was a student, taught my major subject at the college from which I graduated).
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