The sentimental softening and warping of Woody’s reputation began early, even as he was dying, in the 1960s. Will Kaufman’s book “ Woody Guthrie, American Radical” tried to set the record straight last year. “For a man who fought all his life against being respectable, this comes as a stunning defeat,” Arlo Guthrie said in 1998, when his father was put on a 32-cent stamp. They become safe enough for the Postal Service. They are reborn for folk tales and children’s books and PBS pledge drives. Maybe that’s what happens to dissidents who are dead long enough. The life and music of America’s great hobo prophet, its Dust Bowl balladeer, boiled down to this: He brought attention to the critical issues of his day. “Through his unique music, words and style,” the Kennedy Center says, “Guthrie was able to bring attention and understanding to the critical issues of his day.” It will be America’s ultimate tribute to a beloved troubadour. In October the Kennedy Center will throw a centennial party for Woody Guthrie, a star-studded concert with tickets topping out at $175.
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