The Voices That Are Gone: Themes in Nineteenth-Century American Popular Song

In this unique and readable study, Jon Finson views the mores and values of nineteenth-century Americans as they appear in their popular songs. He presents a guided tour of topically arranged, select songs, pointing out the most important landmarks, as well as lesser sights that provide color and context, and obscure but treasurable parts of the scenery overlooked. Finson explores the interaction between musical style and lyrics within each topic, offering a vivid and novel portrait of nineteenth-century America.