duh

indeed

Morrissey *is* a genius with his lyrics. Like it or lump it, even YOR is fantastic lyric-wise. "Skull" and "Farewell" are examples of his lyrical master mindness. They are mesmerising. His lyrics are bit more "blunt" these days but nevertheless still great.

It would be foolish to expect Morrissey to come up with the same old kitchen sink/ Smiths every time.

He is perfect as he is!

I'd listen to Morrissey anytime. Coldplay Viva la vida? Lady Gaga? Editors (what a sad band).

No chance.

Moz is KING.

I think those they chose were not some of the best examples.

now a statue in Camden, somewhere near the Thames

Morrissey looks like he is spreading the dreaded swine flu all over us! [joking]

Did Gavin Hopps use that exact expression "best musical poet"? I scanned the article quickly.

However, I thought the whole premise of Hopps' book was to suggest that Morrissey transcends pop, as in he has wider cultural references, but is still essentially a singer working inside pop? I thought Hopps at the outset made it very clear Morrissey does not directly compete with literary figures, but uses them to enhance his art as a pop singer? Can someone correct me? Am I being fussy?

Also, I saw an interview with Moz about Ringleaders and he suggested he wasn't really aiming to be a poet, he was simply aiming to have "intellectual distinction" in pop music. Does this amount to the same thing or not?

I agree!

Dreary English/Drama teacher that I am (but try not to be), I've long since thought that the only person who comes close to Shakespeare for contributing memorable phrases to the language is Morrissey. We're still use Shakespeare on a daily basis (though most of us aren't aware of it). Morrissey's lyrical quips litter the media.

was it ever in real doubt?