Honestly regardless if Jeff Buckely’s story was like this, it does not matter. This story of basically, an Icarus type story, is relatable. As Icarus wanted to escape, Buckley had that dream he craved. It was the drug of success. It is anyone’s story. And by Icarus, I mean, Buckley kept reaching for the stars, for the sun and finally just flew too close and it destroyed him. This is a bitter beautiful tale, with illustrations that show you how fragile it all was.
Grace: Based on the Jeff Buckley Story is about a young man that probably had more issues than even Tiffanie DeBartolo put in their book. Not only did he meet his father only once in his life, but he also had the unfortunate situation to be the son of Tim Buckley, a singer of the late 1960’s and early 1970’s. Buckley senior died when he was in his late 20’s. Buckley junior was left with a legacy he never could live up to or get away from. He was also compared to his father due his looks and voice. This is the journey Jeff Buckley took to try and be his own person, but one who would burn out by age 30 and die soon after. Like anyone of talent that did not make their third decade, you have to wonder “What if?”
And to help you on that question, you see the life of Buckley in the art and works of Pascal Dizin and Lisa Reist. The haunting and beautiful pieces of art show how romantic DeBartolo’s text made Buckley and his world. And while this story might not be a 5, it is a book that is important. It does not matter if this is a true story or not. It is a story of careful what you wish for and the slippery slope of life.
Buckley’s Grace is one of my favorite albums of all time. This book sounds really interesting.
I was not familiar with him or the album, though I’m sure I’ve heard his version of the Cohen song. I was impressed. I think fans will appreciate it.