After nearly a year, we have completed our full reading of "Dancing the Dream." Now comes the real question... as Michael Jackson fans what exactly do we make of this book? What was Michael's purpose in writing it and what role does it play in his overall legacy? Join me for one final discussion covering this tremendous collection. Starting with a reading of Michael's one and only interview in which he is interviewed, specifically, about "Dancing the Dream" (Chicago Tribune 1992), we will then briefly discussion Elizabeth Amisu's understanding of this work as outlined her book "The Dangerous Philosophies of Michael Jackson," followed by my own personal review.
It has been an outstanding Season 1 of Reading Michael Jackson and I am so grateful for each and every one of you who has joined me along the way!
Please be sure to follow the show closely so you don't miss the Season 2 trailer... it may be dropping sooner than you think!
For questions or comments please email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com!
In this final essay from Dancing the Dream, Michael interrogates his own relationship to the world around him, and what he “owes” other life forms on earth. While examining a famous photograph of a baby seal, he finds himself projecting his own feelings and views onto the seal, forcing him to question his role in the good and bad that happens in the natural world. As a thoughtful close to this book, "Look Again, Baby Seal" challenges all readers to consider what role they play in both the betterment and suffering of the modern world.
Please tune in for next week's season 1 season finale episode!
For questions or comments, email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com.
In this penultimate essay in Dancing the Dream, Michael writes from a place of intentional and intense self-reflection. "Mirroring" the themes from his song "Man in the Mirror," his essay "The One in the Mirror" takes the reflection a step further. Illustrating an internal battle between hope and cynicism, in this piece Michael literally argues with himself about his responsibility to the world as a person largely shielded from its suffering, while still deeply impacted by it.
For me, this is one of the strongest pieces in the book that offers more than a purely idealistic view into the genuine struggle to show up for others, when it would be much easier to turn away.
The interview featured in this episode is from the 1987 interview with Ebony Jet.
For questions and comments, please email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com
As we grow closer to the end of Dancing the Dream, the many themes and personal philosophies Michael Jackson explored throughout the book become all the more clear. With two more short essays to go, this final "poetic" piece "Quantum Leap" features Michael urging us to, once again, take action in shifting our own world view for a more spiritually fulfilling life in which we can contribute to a more "utopian" existence for all. In this discussion, I identify several similar themes, even phrases, from previous pieces in the book, as well as new messages Michael is cementing for us.
For questions or comments, please email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com
Throughout Dancing the Dream, Michael has explored the topics of a "universal oneness" and the ever presence of Heaven all around us. But perhaps no more directly does he do this than in this week's piece. In his poem, "Heaven is Here," Michael embodies a kind of spiritual mentor to his readers, offering wisdom and certainty for us to contend with in the face of our own doubts. Listen this week for an in-depth discussion of not only this piece, but Michael's orientation toward spirituality and mindfulness in general.
For questions or comments, please email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com
In his poem “Once We Were There,” Michael is both separatist and invitational. In what could be seen as a thematic continuation of last week’s “Breaking Free,” in this piece Michael paints a picture of what we were “before” human existence” and what we can do now that we find ourselves here. Join for a heartfelt discussion of healing, acceptance, and recovering from the daily struggle of being human.
For questions or comments, email me at readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com.
This week, we review one of the shortest pieces from Dancing the Dream. In just eight lines, his poem "Breaking Free" explores the meaninglessness of time and the constraints we live in as human beings, so often afraid of taking chances.
But in addition to a reading and analysis of "Breaking Free," this week's episode also features a deep and honest conversation about Michael's right to privacy, self-protection, and the recognition that, as fans, we can (and should) only have so much access to his inner world. Through a brief discussion of his song "Morphine," I open up about my own struggles to understand Michael while recognizing I may never truly be able to.
For questions and comments, please feel free to email me at readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com
This week, Michael asks us an important question: Are we listening? But what exactly is it he wants us to hear? Following a first-person omniscient narrator, in his poem "Are You Listening?" Michael explores themes of immortality, limitlessness, and spiritual ascension. But is the answer to all life's big questions as simple as he suggests? What can we take from this piece in our understanding not only of who Michael Jackson was, but who any of us are in the grand scheme of existence?
For questions or comments, please feel free to email me at readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com.
As we progress toward the end of Dancing the Dream, this week's episode covers, "Magical Child," the first piece in the remarkably short "Part 2" of the collection. Calling back to the first "Magical Child" piece featured in episode 3 of Reading Michael Jackson, this piece offers perhaps an even stronger statement about what it means to be a "magical child" in a cruel, or unforgiving world, than its predeccessor.
Join me this week for a discussion of Michael's self-identity and purpose-driven life, his belief in destiny, and relationship to an unrelenting media.
For questions or comments, feel free to email me at readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com.
As one of Michael's greatest songs, and one of his most notable foray's into Gospel music, "Will You Be There" is a profound plea to God, and all of those in heaven and earth, to recognize his humanity, and to reassure him that they will be there for him in his time of greatest needs. A chillingly prophetic piece, both the song and poem beg the question of what rock bottom moment Michael may have reached that would ultimately inspire these words. Join me for this emotional discussion, as well as some personal sharing about recent Michael Jackson experiences I have had in the world.
Note: The official reading and discussion of "Will You Be There," that begins around the 16 minute mark.
For questions or comments, please email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com.
With only 10 pieces left in Dancing the Dream, this week's poem "Child of Innocence" offers an honest portrait of Michael's own loss of innocence and effort to reclaim it, perhaps offering some perspective on why these themes continue to come to light throughout the book. Join me this week for an emotional discussion about Michael's own struggles with childhood trauma and the struggle to be seen clearly in the world.
For any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to reach out at readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com
In this special bonus episode of Reading Michael Jackson, join me for a fun, lighthearted discussion centered around celebrating all things MJ on his special day!
Starting with a review of where Michael stands in 2025 in terms of global popularity and relevance, continuing with a DJ-esque exploration of some of my favorite (lesser known) MJ songs, continuing with interview and book recommendations, and a brief personal reflection on my fandom 4 years later, this episode has a little bit of everything. So tune in today if you would like to celebrate Michael Jackson's 67th birthday and revel in all the things that make him such a force in the world to this day!
There are many sources and songs references in this episode. For a partial list, see below:
Understanding the TikTok ‘Man in the Mirror’ Trend
https://screenrant.com/michael-jackson-man-in-the-mirror-social-media-trend-reason/
Chartmasters study conveying Michael’s global artistry: https://chartmasters.org/the-60-most-global-artists-of-all-time/
Some of Forbes’ Hugh Mcintyre’s latest coverage of Michael’s chart success:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/hughmcintyre/2025/08/18/michael-jacksons-classic-reaches-a-new-peak-on-multiple-charts/?ctpv=searchpage
Michael Jackson Diane Collins interview (1983) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVZCmZRuUXg&t=870s
Michael Jackson Jesse Jackson (2005) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6kg2CCschI&t=825s
I can’t Help It (demo) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5Qm9pd4xAk
Human Nature - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ElN_4vUvTPs
Monkey Business - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LpL0gzU2giw
Cheater - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGcWrDyHPWo
I’m So Blue - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhZT7uEPjaE
Days in Glousterschire - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CLQ92T1b1gA&t=5s
Beautiful Girl - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pLgP7z7rA0
If You Don’t Love Me - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXmeyOI5cQ8
As always, if you have any questions or comments, please email me at ReadingMichaelJackson@yahoo.com.
Michael's creative philosophy offers fascinating insight into who he was as a person. In this unique essay, Michael explores the ways in which music is all around us, within our body, and requires nurturing, much like a child. But how does this connect to his actual style of creating music (including vocal performance and production)? In what ways are his beliefs about music "within us" reflected in his spiritual evolution and how can we benefit from sitting with these ideas?
For questions or comments, please email me at readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com.
As mentioned in the episode...
Chris Liepe's Reaction to Blood on the Dance Floor Multitracks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yGoilE9ZJB0
Michael Jackson spoke often about his unique childhood, but in our essay this week "I Searched for My Star," he reflects on a surprisingly normal childhood memory - stargazing. Told in a short essay form, Michael invites us into the world of his child self when he once hoped to befriend the stars in the sky, before growing up and out of such innocent fantasies. But in sharing this story, he offers a tale for our consideration. In what ways does our loss of innocence contribute to our loss of caring about the world around us? How can harnessing the wonder we once felt as children help us to protect the world for future generations?
Tune in for this week's in-depth review of another beautiful piece from Dancing the Dream.
For questions or comments, email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com.
Though Michael Jackson's religious affiliations are well-documented, his ongoing pursuit of spiritual knowledge is less so. In his short essay "Angel of Light," Michael details his study of "angels" and what he has learned about them so far, ultimately reflecting on his introspective meditation to discover his own "angel within." This piece provides so much to consider about Michael's spiritual journey, lending to a discussion about not only Michael's views of angels themselves but of women and men, the existence of the soul, and his own desire to "find himself."
As mentioned in this episode, you may have an interest in exploring Howard Bloom's comments about Michael Jackson. His book Einstein, Michael Jackson, and Me: A Search for Soul in the Power Pits of Rock and Roll is available online and in stores. Bloom has also given several interviews with MJ content creators such as The MjCast and The Michael Jackson Book Club, both of which are available on YouTube.
To contact me, please email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com.
Though Michael Jackson didn't discuss much about his romantic life in the public eye, his short essay "I You We" demonstrates some of his thought process about what makes a relationship work. Positioning a relationship as a three way dynamic between the individual "I" and "you" and the constructed "we," Michael explores the power of having a strong foundation in order to make a relationship work. What can we learn about Michael's relationship history and emotional intelligence when we deep dive into this piece?
For questions and comments, please reach out at readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com
As mentioned at the start of the episode, consider checking out the audio of the 1988 Bad tour rehearsals: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-4g20-boFI&t=3366s
If you are interested in finding incredibly rare live footage and audio of Michael's tours, consider following the "MJ Live & Rare Videos" Youtube channel: https://youtube.com/@mjlarv?si=E1kfrcLZzFbVwn2C
In this week's episode of Reading Michael Jackson, we read and discuss the Michael's short essay "Wise Little Girl." As a reflection on the inspiration he felt meeting with a young disabled child, Michael explores what we can learn from observing and internalizing the resilience and innocence of children. However, this piece also offers fans additional insight into how Michael's frequent humanitarian efforts impacted him on an emotional and spiritual level.
As mentioned in the episode, if you are unfamiliar with Paul Dwyer's work on Michael Jackson's humanitarian legacy, please check out his book, podcast, and documentary linked below!
Documentary - "Humanitarian: The Real Michael Jackson"
Podcast - "Humanitarian: The Real Michael Jackson"
Book - "Humanitarian: The Real Michael Jackson"
For any questions or feedback on Reading Michael Jackson, please don't hesitate to reach out at readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com.
In this week's episode of Reading Michael Jackson we discuss the piece, "Mother Earth." As a reflection on humanity's toxic relationship with the natural world, Michael calls out the often exploitative way we treat the earth, likening our dismissal of it's preciousness to a tenant trashing a rental apartment. Culminating with a call to action for us to reignite our commitment to caring for the plant, this piece demonstrates Michael's consistent messaging throughout this book, as well as his career.
I hope you enjoy this week's discussion! If you have any comments or questions, please don't hesitate to reach out at readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com
Michael Jackson did not often comment on specific global issues, but in this week's episode we discuss "Berlin 1989," a short written work in which he explores the fundamental power of hate. Positioning hate as a kind of psychological warfare fostered by those in power and stronger than any physical barriers that divide people, Michael tells the story of the Berlin Wall and it's eventual fall in 1989. Though the message of this piece is ultimately love and unity, this piece in some ways shows the early tremors of Michael as the frustrated and angry protest songwriter who would eventually compose pieces like "They Don't Care About Us." As unique and powerful piece, this one is a stand out piece in Dancing the Dream.
For questions or comments please email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com.
In this week's episode, we discuss a poem from Dancing the Dream that encapsulates Michael's view on how to achieve a life of true happiness and freedom. In "Ecstasy" Michael demonstratively declares a reconsideration of "sin" and the ease of which we can all access our true self if only we could find a way to bridge the gaps between ourselves and others.
For questions or comments, please don't hesitate to reach out at readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com.