Heads: A Biography of Psychedelic America

Introduction to the Work

Heads: A Biography of Psychedelic America uncovers a hidden history of the biggest psychedelic distribution and belief system the world has ever known. Through a collection of fast-paced interlocking narratives, it animates the tale of an alternate America and its wide-eyed citizens: the LSD-slinging graffiti writers of Central Park, the Dead-loving AI scientists of Stanford, utopian Whole Earth homesteaders, black market chemists, government-wanted Anonymous hackers, rogue explorers, East Village bluegrass pickers, spiritual seekers, Internet pioneers, entrepreneurs, pranksters, pioneering DJs, and a nation of Deadheads.

WFMU DJ and veteran music writer Jesse Jarnow draws on extensive new firsthand accounts from many never-before-interviewed subjects and a wealth of deep archival research to create a comic-book-colored and panoramic American landscape, taking readers for a guided tour of the hippie highway filled with lit-up explorers, peak trips, big busts, and scenic vistas, from Vermont to the Pacific Northwest, from the old world head capitals of San Francisco and New York to the geodesic dome-dotted valleys of Colorado and New Mexico. And with the psychedelic research moving into the mainstream for the first time in decades, Heads also recounts the story of the quiet entheogenic revolution that for years has been brewing resiliently in the Dead's Technicolor shadow.

Featuring over four dozen images, many never before seen-including pop artist Keith Haring's first publicly sold work-Heads weaves one of the 20th and 21st centuries' most misunderstood subcultures into the fabric of the nation's history. Written for anyone who wondered what happened to the heads after the Acid Tests, through the '70s, during the Drug War, and on to the psychedelic present, Heads collects the essential history of how LSD, Deadheads, tie-dye, and the occasional bad trip have become familiar features of the American experience.

Visual Elements

Image 1: Front Cover. This image displays the front cover of the book, featuring a vibrant, abstract design reminiscent of the American flag, with the title "HEADS" in a distinctive font. The design incorporates shades of blue and pink, suggesting the psychedelic theme of the book.

Image 2: Back Cover. This image shows the back cover of the book, which includes several endorsements and quotes from notable authors and critics, providing insight into the book's reception and content. The design maintains the psychedelic aesthetic of the front cover.

Note: No official product videos are available for this book.

Exploring the Narrative (Operating)

The book delves into several interconnected narratives and themes, offering a comprehensive look at psychedelic culture in America:

• Historical Trajectory: Traces the evolution of psychedelic use and culture from its early days through the 20th and 21st centuries.
• Key Figures and Communities: Introduces readers to influential individuals, groups, and subcultures, including the Grateful Dead, AI scientists, homesteaders, chemists, and hackers.
• Geographical Scope: Explores the spread of psychedelic culture across various American regions, from San Francisco and New York to Vermont and New Mexico.
• Cultural Impact: Examines how psychedelics influenced music, art, technology, and broader societal movements.
• Underground Economy: Provides insights into the distribution networks and informal economies that supported psychedelic culture.

Readers are encouraged to follow the intricate connections between these elements to fully appreciate the depth of the historical account.

Enhancing Your Reading Experience (Maintenance)

To maximize your engagement with Heads: A Biography of Psychedelic America, consider the following:

• Contextual Reading: The book benefits from an understanding of mid-20th century American history and counterculture movements.
• Reviewing Endorsements: The back cover and editorial reviews provide diverse perspectives on the book's content and significance.
• Exploring References: The extensive research and interviews cited by the author can serve as a starting point for further exploration of specific topics or figures.
• Discussion: Engaging in discussions about the book's themes can deepen understanding and appreciation of its complex narratives.

Contextual Understanding (Troubleshooting)

The book presents a nuanced view of psychedelic history. For a complete understanding, it is important to:

• Recognize Nuance: The narrative avoids simplistic portrayals, highlighting both the idealistic and challenging aspects of psychedelic movements.
• Historical Perspective: Understand that the events and cultural shifts described are presented within their specific historical contexts, which may differ significantly from contemporary perspectives.
• Author's Approach: Jesse Jarnow's approach is one of meticulous research and firsthand accounts, aiming to provide an objective historical record rather than a subjective endorsement.

Book Details (Specifications)

Author and Publisher Information

About the Author: Jesse Jarnow is the author of Big Day Coming: Yo La Tengo and the Rise of Indie Rock and Heads: A Biography of Psychedelic America. His writing on music, technology, and culture has appeared in the Times (London), the Village Voice, Rolling Stone, Pitchfork, Wired.com, Relix (contributing editor), Dupree's Diamond News, and elsewhere. He lives in Brooklyn, New York, and hosts The Frow Show on the independent Jersey City radio station WFMU. He tweets via @bourgwick and @HeadsNews.

Publisher: Grand Central Publishing is a division of Hachette Book Group, a leading trade publisher based in New York. They publish a broad range of books for adults and young readers, including fiction, non-fiction, and illustrated books.

For inquiries regarding the content or publication, please refer to the publisher's official channels.