New book looks at 'The Boss'

Many Freehold-area residents do not question their unwavering loyalty to Bruce Springsteen. When the Boss sings about driving up Route 9 and spending summer nights at the boardwalk, it is impossible for many individuals not to relate to his experiences that come with the territory of growing up in central New Jersey.

Louis P. Masur, a William R. Kenan Jr. Professor of American Institutions and Values at Trinity College, Hartford, Conn., and lifelong Springsteen fan, delves into the place of Springsteen's third album, "Born to Run," in American cultural history in his new book, "Runaway Dream: Born to Run and Bruce Springsteen's American Vision."

According to Masur, understanding "Born to Run" is key in discerning Springsteen's road to fame.

"This is the album that made Springsteen into a superstar," Masur said. "Here, Springsteen begins to explore themes that he will continue to sing about in future albums… his dreams of escape, the meaning of the American dream, as well as its dark side, individualism, and the search for community. This is the album that saves rock 'n' roll."

Masur, who splits his time between Hartford, Conn., and Highland Park, includes information about Springsteen's childhood in Freehold and his relationship with his parents. Photos of Springsteen taken in the Freehold area are included.

On Sept. 20, Masur will discuss and sign copies of "Runaway Dream: Born to Run and Bruce Springsteen's American Vision" at Barnes & Noble, Route 9, Freehold, at 3 p.m. This is Masur's fifth book.

Springsteen will celebrate his 60th birthday on Sept. 23.

— Devin Alessio