David + the Reporter

I take exception to the mocking tone of the interview with David Baerwald. OK, maybe Baerwald is a little over the top in his passion for the dark side of politics and history, but surely, he must be more than the one-note ranter he is made out to be.

I think it’s both admirable and inspiring that an artist like Baerwald seeks to educate himself in the intricacies of modern American history. Why is it that playing golf, following professional sports or espousing broad-spectrum concern for the rain forest are praiseworthy interests for artists and celebrities but politics and history aren’t?

As for Baerwald himself, I hope he doesn’t let the petty derision of a rock writer deter him from his studies or chip away at his confidence in his own opinions. It sounds like he has a lot to offer.

JANE RUSCONI

Venice