Turned on to Rollins
Earlier this year I listened to a man speak for around two and a half hours. There was no intermission. No toilet break. It was mostly fascinating. That man was Henry Rollins.
Rollins has had a long career and one senses he’s far from finished. He is primarily an entertainer. Perhaps what sets Rollins apart is the breadth of what he has done. Rollins started out as the front man for 1980’s punk group Black Flag. He’s hosted radio and television programs. He’s dabbled in acting and even done some comedy.
Now that he’s into his fifties Rollin’s is focusing his considerable talent into his spoken word tours. The length of the oratory is challenging. So are some of the ideas. One of the key thoughts Rollin’s is pushing in his latest series is the idea that he is seeking to ‘upgrade’ himself.
The idea of bettering oneself is an old one. In a way Rollins is ‘upgrading’ that old idea. He upgrades it with modern references to connect with his audience. He upgrades it with his at times brutal commentary on social issues. He upgrades it with personal anecdotes about his life. The man barely moves when onstage yet his energy is impressive.
Another central theme of Rollins current show, and of his past work in general, is that we should not shy away from confronting the things which we fear. Confronting such fears is the first step to overcoming our problems. It’s an idea that the disenchanted everywhere should consider. Particularly those ensconced within a ‘safe space’.
Another key theme is his recognition that whilst the world is a tough place there is cause for optimism. Rollins is both realistic and optimistic. He seems to acknowledge that there are things about humans that might never change. That doesn’t mean that on balance things won’t get better if enough people stand up and fight for better outcomes.
This is particularly evident in the many personal anecdotes which Rollins delivers during his spoken word shows. He notes that wherever he goes there is criticism. You simply cannot keep everyone happy. No matter how benign his motives, the hate mail is constant. The only change is the direction said hate is coming from.
This possibly depressing situation is contrasted by stories noting that praise can also come from the most unexpected quarters and about the most unexpected things. Even work which is panned by the critics and the public is well received by some people.
One of the things I really appreciated about Rollins latest show was the way it seemed to balance. Whilst there was anger, it was juxtaposed with humility. Serious issues intertwined with humorous stories.
The resulting tapestry is what keeps people captivated. For over two hours. Without interruption of any kind. His quite unique mind turning listeners on with his fairly unique perspective. Go out. Get turned on to Rollins.