I think Eminem took the formula for his new record from American wrestling. Imagine someone like Hulk Hogan in a match:
- The proverbial has been kicked out of Hogan by a ruthless opponent. Bruises stud his features like diamonds on a tiara.
- The referee is counting him out. The seconds pass - one, two, three - and hope is obviously gone.
- But - oh! - microseconds before the referee slaps the mat for the last time Hogan springs to life! He delivers a satisfying chair to the temples of his astonished opponent.
- The opponent is knocked out - the crowd goes wild - Hogan is showered with fifty dollar bills.
This isn't so unlikely. Eminem refers to last chances on 'Recovery' so many times you'd think he was suffering from a terminal illness:
- "You know - technically I'm not even supposed to be here right now - so fuck it - might as well make the most of it." - Cinderella Man
- "Y'all don't look too happy to see me - fuck it - don't everyone welcome me back at once - fuck it already." - Cold Wind Blows
The result is that 'Recovery' has sold 1.8 million records since release and is the fifth biggest selling album of the year. In short:
- Once it has become obvious that making millions of dollars insulting people is no longer viable, reinvent yourself as an underdog and victim of the people you insulted. This will ensure your continued career and financial solvency.
Incidentally I like the album a lot.
