Insights Into Eminem

I’m a 72-year-old retired white male without a lot of understanding or appreciation of rap music, much less any love for Eminem, based on previous accounts I had read about him and his work. But after reading Robert Hilburn’s article (“Chilling Out--for Him,” June 2), I think I can see the good side of a young man I’d just about written off as anyone I’d want to see, hear, meet or know.

You have presented well some of his own substantial comments about the artistry and thought that goes into rap, which a lot of us old fogies have written off as frenzied drivel without taking the time to understand it.

The next time that I come into contact with anything connected with this young man, I will look with interest, with an understanding of the personal life experience, depth and purpose underlying his words.

BILL McAULIFFE

San Diego