I'm tempted to not link to The New York Times Magazine feature on Rush Limbaugh, because he's such a lightening rod to many. But anyone objecting will just have to deal with it. I'm a libertarian, so some of his conservative views aren't up my alley, either. Yet many (like guns and taxes) are or are at least very close.
None of that stuff, or anything political, has anything to do with me posting the article.
What does?
- Well, like Rush or not, only anti-Limbaugh zealots will say with straight faces that the guy isn't talented. He is, and has a sense of humor and true wit (unlike less successful radio hosts on the Left and Right who substitute anger or outrage or something in-between). His show will celebrate 20 years of nationwide syndication later this summer, so the man has staying power. (A trait of my two favorite radio personalities, Paul Harvey and Bruce Williams.)
- Reading the article reveals that Rush is a great businessman. I've always been impressed when he says his job is to attract an audience so his show and the stations carrying it attract advertisers. The old saying in business that "nothing happens until somebody sells something" is true. And reading Limbaugh's appreciation of this at greater length is good stuff.
- The guy has learned from his mistakes. Oh, I'm sure some will snicker about three divorces and addiction to pain killers. But I'm getting at his early jobs. Many of us aren't world-beaters in our youth, have parents worrying about us, and generally spend a number of years simply finding our way. I knew about this aspect of Limbaugh's past, but the article does a fine job re-telling it.
- Perhaps most importantly, the article reminds us that traditional education often isn't necessary for success in life. And underscores the role self-education can play in achievement. Rush never liked school and the results showed. Let's face it, his humor, business sense and public speaking ability weren't learned in any classroom (I've heard him talk about the positive impact learning public speaking has had in his life). Aside from basic reading and writing, and math, I doubt nothing from schooling played any role in his success -- and that's true for countless successful people.
You can learn from this article. Or be reminded of things you already know. It's long, so print it out and read it. Lewis Lapham is on the Left and he's the best essayist in America. Rush Limbaugh is on the Right and he's the best radio host in the country. That's how things can work in this crazy world.
Congratulations to Zev Chafets for an excellent profile.
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