Love in Vain: A Vision of Robert Johnson

by Alan Greenberg
Love in Vain: A Vision of Robert Johnson cover
Good Books rating 4.58
Biography and Memoir
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  • ID: 9602
  • Added: 2026-01-01
  • Updated: 2026-01-01
  • Publisher: Da Capo Press, Incorporated
  • Published: 1994-03-21
  • Reviews: 3

Love In Vain brings to life the enigmatic story of Robert Johnson, one of the most influential Mississippi Delta blues musicians. This screenplay, directed by Martin Scorsese, captures Johnson's music, life, and enduring legend in a compelling and readable manner. It is enriched with extensive historical notes, a selected discography, and previously unpublished photographs, offering a comprehensive look into the man behind the myth. /n/n The screenplay not only dramatizes Johnson's life but also provides a deeper understanding of his impact on music history. The inclusion of rare photographs and detailed historical context makes this a must-read for blues enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Reviews
Booksplea · 2018-11-02
remarkable 4.50

The book is a remarkable and highly acclaimed screenplay that is widely considered one of the foremost books on Robert Johnson. It offers a unique and genre-defying perspective on the blues legend.

This review highlights the book's acclaim and its status as a genre-defying work. The reviewer notes that it is widely regarded as one of the most significant books on Robert Johnson, offering a unique and compelling vision of his life. They appreciate the book's ability to capture the essence of Johnson's persona and the blues culture of his time. The reviewer also notes that the book is not just a straightforward biography but a rich and multifaceted exploration of Johnson's legacy.

Quick quotes

    Love in Vain is Alan Greenberg's remarkable, highly acclaimed, and genre-defying screenplay and is widely considered to be one of the foremost books on Robert Johnson.

    The book offers a unique and compelling vision of Johnson's life and legacy.

    Greenberg's work captures the essence of Johnson's persona and the blues culture of his time.

Seattle PI · Blog Critics · 2013-01-15
insightful 4.75

The screenplay, supplemented with extensive historical notes, is one of the best evocations of Johnson and the blues scene of the time. It offers a deep and insightful look into Johnson's life and legacy.

This review praises the screenplay for its extensive historical notes, which provide a rich context for Johnson's life and the blues scene. The reviewer finds the book to be one of the most insightful and evocative works on Johnson, offering a deep dive into his world. They appreciate the combination of drama and historical accuracy, making it a standout piece of literature on the blues legend. The reviewer also notes that the book is not just a biography but a comprehensive exploration of the cultural and musical environment that shaped Johnson.

Quick quotes

    The screenplay, with the notes, is one of the best evocations and explanations not only of Johnson but the blues scene of the time ever written.

    Greenberg's work is a remarkable blend of drama and historical accuracy.

    The book offers a deep and insightful look into Johnson's life and legacy.

Dicksaunders · Dick Saunders · 2011-07-14
engaging 4.50

The book focuses on the milieu and mood of Robert Johnson's life rather than conflating history. The narrative is engaging and immersive, offering a unique perspective on the blues legend.

This review highlights how the book stands out by not simplifying history like many musical biographies. Instead, it delves into the atmosphere and setting of Johnson's life, making it a more authentic and engaging read. The reviewer appreciates the depth and atmosphere Greenberg creates, providing a fresh and immersive experience. They note that the book is not just a straightforward biography but a rich tapestry of the blues culture and Johnson's enigmatic persona.

Quick quotes

    Instead of conveniently conflating history like most dramatized musical biographies, the book focuses on milieu and mood.

    Greenberg, who went to Mississippi to research the book, captures the essence of the Delta blues culture.

    The book is a remarkable and genre-defying screenplay that offers a unique vision of Robert Johnson's life.

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