The main purpose of the article “The Life and Times of Bob Marley” which is written by Mikal Gilmore is to pay tribute to the famous singer, songwriter, and guitarist Bob Marley, who is renowned as a performer of reggae music.
The main idea that the author of this article wants to convey is that Bob Marleys philosophy will never become out-of- date. Moreover, the author believes that some songs or ideas are often misunderstood or misinterpreted. For example, Mikal Gilmore says “Marley wasn’t singing about how peace could come easily to the world but rather about how hell on earth comes too easily to too many.”(Gilmore, 1).
The main idea that the author wants to place emphasis on is that Bob Marley tried to reflect his personal experience in his songs and that they should be interpreted within the context of Bob Marleys life. However, it does not mean that his lyrics are of local scale because they deeply touch people all over the world.
Gilmore believes that Marleys ability to describe life “in palpable and authentic ways” makes this musicians unique among others. Moreover, the author believes that Marley was strongly influenced by Rastafarianism, a mystical religion, which views Western world as the modern Babylon that is constantly going to its destruction, and the only way to avert this catastrophe is to live in harmony with each other. According to Gilmore Marley was the embodiment of this religion. Naturally, it was reflected in Marleys songs.
Thus, we may arrive at the conclusion that Mikal Gilmore tries to look at Bob Marleys creative work from a different point of view, which throws new light on the life of the famous musician and poet.
Bibliography
Gilmore M. “The Life and Times of Bob Marley. How he changed the world.”