Annalog

Since Michael Jackson’s death was announced last Thursday afternoon, I have a new found appreciation for his music and his dance moves. I’ve tapped my feet to “Beat It” in the BART station and attempted to Moon Walk. I have been a proud card-carrying member of the iPod generation the last few days, listening to Invincible and HIStory almost nonstop. Guess it’s going to be a while before I can get through his whole discography.

As an entertainer, Jackson was the whole package. Stars have tried to follow his lead since, but Jackson was an accomplished entertainer and future performers have a tall order to follow. Jackson stayed in the public’s consciousness for decades, even after public scandals and accusations of child molestation, because his talent was undeniable. Knowing how to Moon Walk is still awe-inspiring and the world still has a cult obsession with the star. (The last few days are evidence.)

The New Yorker wrote a piece on Jackson’s death this week with an accompanying image, of course. The picture looks alien with blocky features and big vacant black eyes. If only … if only … the had been world a kinder place.

Here’s to MJ.