Hip: The History

by John Leland
Hip: The History cover
Good Books rating 3.92
History, Identity, Culture, Sociology
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  • ID: 9610
  • Added: 2026-01-01
  • Updated: 2026-01-01
  • ISBN: 9780060528171
  • Publisher: Harper Collins
  • Published: 2004-10-05
  • Reviews: 3

Hip: The History delves into the dynamic transformation of American popular culture over the 20th century, tracing its journey to becoming the world's cultural benchmark. The book highlights the pivotal role of art and various cultural movements in shaping this evolution, offering a comprehensive look at the trends and figures that defined an era. /n/nThrough vivid narratives and insightful analysis, the book captures the essence of American culture, from its roots to its current status as a global touchstone. It provides a rich tapestry of influences, showcasing how art and popular culture have intertwined to create a unique and enduring legacy.

Reviews
This Ain't Blog · 2009-02-12
refreshing 4.25

The book challenges the common misconception that ennui, boredom, smugness, and jadedness are the same as being hip. It provides a nuanced understanding of what it means to be truly hip.

The reviewer appreciates how 'Hip: The History' dispels the myth that ennui, boredom, smugness, and jadedness are synonymous with being hip. They find the book's exploration of the true meaning of 'hip' to be both insightful and refreshing. The reviewer also notes that the book's thorough research and engaging writing style make it a enjoyable read. Overall, they believe the book offers a valuable perspective on the cultural significance of 'hip' and its evolution over time.

Quick quotes

    Too many scenesters have the mistaken idea that ennui, boredom, smugness and jadedness are the same as hip.

    This book puts the notion of hip ...

    Hip: The History draws the connections between Walt Whitman and Richard Hell, or Raymond Chandler and Snoop Dogg.

Jerry Jazz Musician · 2005-01-03
engaging 4.00

The book is described as a story of an American obsession derived from the Wolof word 'hepi' or 'hipi'. It traces the history of 'hip' through various cultural touchstones.

The reviewer highlights that 'Hip: The History' is a compelling narrative about an American obsession with being 'hip'. They appreciate the book's derivation from the Wolof word 'hepi' or 'hipi', which means 'to see' or 'to open one's eyes'. The reviewer finds the book's exploration of how 'hip' has been a cultural touchstone throughout history to be particularly engaging. They also note that the book's extensive research makes it a valuable resource for understanding the evolution of American pop culture.

Quick quotes

    John Leland's Hip: The History is the story of an American obsession.

    Derived from the Wolof word hepi or hipi (“to see,” or “to open one's eyes ...

    Hip: The History is the story of how American pop culture has evolved throughout the twentieth century to its current position as world cultural touchstone.

The New York Times · 2004-10-24
thoughtful 3.50

The book delves into the evolution of American pop culture and its global influence. It explores the complexities and contradictions inherent in the concept of 'hip'.

The reviewer notes that 'Hip: The History' is a thorough exploration of how American pop culture has evolved into a global phenomenon. They appreciate the book's concrete analyses of various hipster milieus and its attempts to define what 'hip' truly means. However, they also point out that the book's frequent pauses to ponder the essence of 'hip' can sometimes feel repetitive. Overall, the reviewer finds the book insightful but somewhat exhausting in its detail.

Quick quotes

    "Hip: The History" frequently pauses during its concrete analyses of hipster milieus to ponder what, precisely, hip is.

    Hip rationalizes poor life choices; it squanders money, love, talent, lives.

    The line conjures any number of icons such as...

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