Brent's review of Among the Thugs
Among the Thugs by Bill Buford
I really enjoyed this book but I'm not sure why. It depicts the "football" hooligans of England and attempts to explain their violent behaviour. In a Hunter Thompson style, Buford embeds himself within the firms, or gangs, of the soccer hooligans and what he finds is both fascinating and repulsive: many of the fans are working class but many are successful businessmen simply looking for an emotional release. His search ends with the realization that the hooligans lust for the anonymity and selflessness that is produced by becoming a member of a crowd. It doesn't make sense but Buford concludes that this release is akin to the releases that others secure from booze, drugs, and/or gambling.
Its not uplifting but it is a fascinating read...
Its not uplifting but it is a fascinating read...
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