From TLS, novel thoughts: Neuroscience is helping us to understand how art works – and it may offer us a way out of narcissism. More on Mirror of the World: A New History of Art by Julian Bell. A review of Technologies of the Picturesque: British Art, Poetry, and Instruments 1750-1830 by Ron Broglio. From New Statesman, Moscow's extraordinary architectural heritage is being wiped out in the ruthless pursuit of a new Russia; and wild, wild east: Soviet-era cowboy films have inspired politicians, writers and cosmonauts alike. The Gospel According to Philip Seymour Hoffman: An excerpt from A Jesuit Off-Broadway by James Martin. Like a complete unknown: "I'm Not There" and the changing face of Bob Dylan on film. Far from Hollywood: With his kaleidoscopic Bob Dylan anti-biopic, director Todd Haynes takes a bold leap back to his avant-garde roots. A review of I Hate Myself and Want to Die: The 52 Most Depressing Songs You've Ever Heard by Tom Reynolds. The Pretenders: A rock-star fantasy that demands a different set of skills. Is it possible to make pop music without concern that it's popular? A look at paradoxes of home recording. Move over, iPod: Internet radio captures the enduring magic of the medium and makes the local global.
