“CNN commentator and prize-wining author Michael Genovese gives us a culturally rich grand tour of the major role storytellers have played in the Western tradition. It makes clear that we need stories just as much as we love stories. This gem of a book explains that poets, painters, songwriters and filmmakers wonderfully reveal where we have come from, who we are, point out are shortcomings and celebrate our possibilities..”
— Thomas E. Cronin, President Emeritus, Whitman College and author of “Imagining a Great Republic: Political Novels and the Idea of America” and “Writing as a Performing Art”
Genovese appreciates something important: that emotion is more powerful than fact. That is why story-telling casts such a spell over politics and life. In his characteristically deft and seamless way, Genovese surveys the visual arts, music, and film to illuminate their story-telling power over our political and social selves. A concise, punchy slogan isn’t everything, but it’s a lot. So is this concise book.
— Robert J. Spitzer, Distinguished Service Professor of Political Science, SUNY Cortland; author, "The Politics of Gun Control" and "Guns Across America: Reconciling Gun Rules and Rights"
“Much of the public find’s politics baffling and boring, far removed from their everyday lives. However, politics penetrates their brains when works of art, music, and films portray politics by telling a story that is easily understood. The genius of the present book by Michael Genovese is to explain how, when, and why a vision of politics can be compelling and inspiring for most people by viewing works of art, listening to dramatic chords and melodies, and viewing cinematic portrayals. Examples carefully chosen in the book illustrate why the creators of art, music, and film are the most profound but unacknowledged legislators of the world. But now, thanks to Michael Genovese, the secret is out for all to admire and behold.”
— Michael Haas, President, Political Film Society
“In this book, Michael Genovese reveals how and why art, music, and movies are inextricably woven into political culture. Drawing upon a broad range of scholarship, Genovese demonstrates the importance of storytelling in politics, and how it makes meaning for the public. The writing never gets bogged down in technicalities or jargon, and Genovese makes his points easy to understand to any reader. The book spans the gamut of art, music, and movies, providing illuminating examples of how each has influenced politics over millennia. This book is truly a superb distillation of how culture affects politics, and how those who know how to use it often win.”
— Todd Belt, The George Washington University