Lou Reed’s Writings on Martial Arts Set for Release, With Laurie Anderson Foreword

Lou Reed book cover

A new book will compile the writings of Lou Reed—an accomplished tai chi practitioner from the 1980s until his death—on music, meditation, and martial arts. The Art of the Straight Line: My Tai Chi, out March 14 via HarperOne, features a foreword from the late artist’s partner, Laurie Anderson.

The book comprises “unpublished writings on the technique, practice, and purpose of martial arts, as well as essays, observations, and riffs on meditation and life,” according to the publisher. Reed, who studied with Master Ren GuangYi, discussed the practice with artists, friends, and other tai chi practitioners, such as Iggy Pop, Tony Visconti, Julian Schnabel, and the late Hal Willner. Those conversations also appear in the book. 

Anderson edited the book alongside Stephan Berwick, Bob Currie, and Scott Richman. Faber will publish The Art of the Straight Line in the United Kingdom and Ireland on March 16.

All products featured on Pitchfork are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Lou Reed & Laurie Anderson: The Art of the Straight Line: My Tai Chi

Share This Article