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Drew M. Dalton, Professor of Philosophy, Dominican University

The beautiful pessimism at the heart of Jimmy Buffett's music

Jimmy Buffett Arthur Schopenhauer David Letterman
Buffett's first hit, 'Come Monday,' was written when the artist was deeply depressed and suicidal. Bettmann/Getty Images

With the death of Jimmy Buffett, the feathers of his loyal network of fans – affectionately known as Parrot Heads – collectively drooped.

Over the course of his career, Buffett earned their love by transforming himself into a kind of musical shaman who offered transport from the banalities of everyday life to the bounty of a never-never land of eternal sun, endless sandy beaches and bottomless boat drinks: Margaritaville.

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