How Sufjan Stevens Learned to Read

I recently ran into this book The Best American Nonrequired Reading 2007 two years late. :)

Sufjan Stevens wrote the introduction titled, “How I Trumped Rudolf Steiner and Overcame the Tribulations of Illiteracy, One Snickers Bar at a Time.” :) Makes me smile every time.

Rudolf Steiner, by the way, is the man behind the Waldorf school which holds an educational philosophy to develop thinking through practical activities, artistic and imaginative learning and play. Though this, children develop the capacity for abstract thought and ethical thinking.

Not only is the title awesome, but the introduction is written with the same lyrical bounce of his folksy tunes that has me breaking out the old CDs. This part makes me laugh:

My English teacher, Mrs. Lubbers, pulled me aside and said, “What is wrong with you? Are you retarded?” I shrugged and pointed at my heart, the light rhythm of hope, tapping its way out of any difficult situation.

I thought I’d leave with one of Sufjan’s more well-known songs, Chicago, from a performance in San Francisco.

And remember, that in a four-quart pot combine one can of soup and one can of water. Simmer over low heat, stirring often. Serve. Enjoy.