Goth

A History

De: Lol Tolhurst

Narrado por: Lol Tolhurst, Budgie

The co-founder of The Cure and author of Cured delivers a fascinating deep dive into the dark romanticism of Goth music, a misunderstood genre and culture.

GOTH is an entertaining and engaging historical memoir, and a journey through Goth music and culture, exploring creative giants like The Cure, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Bauhaus, Joy Division, and many more great bands that offered a place of refuge for the misfits of the ‘80s and ever since. Written by Lol Tolhurst, co-founder of The Cure, this book offers a riveting retrospective of the genre’s iconic movers and shakers, infused with stories from Tolhurst’s personal trove of memories, as well as anecdotes about the musicians, magicians, and artists who made it all happen—the people, places, and things that made Goth an inevitable and enduring movement.

Starting with the Origins of Goth, Tolhurst explores early art and literature that inspired the genre and looks into the work of T.S Eliot, Edgar Allan Poe, Sylvia Plath, and Albert Camus, among others. He also outlines the path of Gothic Forebears and shows how many musicians played in punk bands before transitioning into Goth endeavors. Next, he introduces readers to the “Architects of Darkness”—Bauhaus, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Joy Division, and The Cure—the Godfathers of Goth who established the genre's roots. Following these early bands, Tolhurst discusses a group he calls the “Spiritual Alchemists,” consisting of bands like Depeche Mode, Cocteau Twins, and more, who helped the darkness expand into the culture. He also tracks the expansion of the genre overseas, from England to New York, Los Angeles, and beyond. Gothic fashion was an important part of the movement as well, and Tolhurst discusses the clothing that accompanied and complemented the music. Finally, Tolhurst examines the legacy of Goth music, and shows how its influence can still be seen to this day across music, film, TV, visual arts, social media, and more.

As thoughtful and thorough as it is utterly bewitching, GOTH is a timeless testament to why Goth matters—and why it always will.

©2023 Lol Tolhurst (P)2023 Hachette Books

Delicious! I loved it

Thank you Lol. What an achievement! I just loved it and look forward to sharing it with my friends, young and old💕

Laurence Tolhurst’s perspective of Goth as a Subculture & Community, from one of the earliest artists of the genre

This really feels like a fire side chat vs a strict academic study. With his history of being a founding member of The Cure, Lol’s account of the history, present & future is an authentic look at the genre.

He mentions other bands, the nightclubs & interactions with the “normal world”. The genre was the weird kids table. Harassment & confrontations by outsiders were a real part of the experience of being part of the subculture.

It’s unusual to see nowadays, Kardashians using goth culture as a temporary costume to get attention. After the popularity of Tim Burton’s Wednesday, more people have started to dabble in the dark arts of Goth fashion but ignore the soundtrack.

However, the author mentions the genre will continue, as it should. He also closes the book discussing that elder Goths exist & encourages the elder goths to continue to let the freak flag fly. That Goth perhaps, is an anti aging secret. The elder Goths I know are fairly active in creating & living a connected & fun life.

A Trip Through Time

Lol is very good at taking us to the place he speaks of. He has a nack for narration and a lovely voice. Thoroughly enjoyed this trip.

Music history and much much more!!!

Lol writes and iterates articulately and intelligently - insightful, fun, and refreshing prose from one of The Cure’s founding members .

Narration and storytelling

I loved Lol Tolhurst’s first book Cured so I got Goth. Another engaging listen which I enjoyed immensely.

What more could an OG goth want?

Told by a gothfather who lived it and breathed it. I really appreciated the rundown he gives of songs on the selection of records by bands like Joy Division, the Banshees and Bauhaus.
💀💀💀

Goth: A Glorious Perspective from LOl

Goth is a glorious perspective on life as reflected and presented by Lol. I adored Cured, reading the hardcover after meeting Lol at a book signing in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and later listening to the audiobook. Having seen the Cure play live many times throughout my life since age 12, I’ve grown and changed along with this fantastic and varied tribe. Read or listen to this book - it’s a filled with stories from the past brought to the present of sorrow, love and joy.

ElderGoth Approved!

Absolutely wonderful tale of the essence of Goth. A must read for those that love The Cure, expertly told by Lol Tolhurst.

Love Lol

Love Lol’s voice and stories. Very informative and relaxing. Love the stories behind the music.

Lol’s life experiences and literary skills come together for this exquisite perspective on the subject

After reading Cured, his previous book, I was compelled to read his 2nd book about a subject near and dear to my lifestyle. He has grown exponentially as an author, and this is a poignant, inspiring, and insightful read that any lover of goth or someone who is curious about the topic will find equally engaging. There’s so much more to say, but there’s not enough thumbs to give ups to this. Great job Lol!