Drew Daniel creates an exploded view of the album's multiple agendas: a series of close readings of each song, shot through with a sequence of thematic entries on key concepts, strategies, and contexts
Exploring the concept of voluntary death, the book presents "the joy of the worm," a unique aesthetic where such acts are viewed with humor and celebration rather than tragedy. Drew Daniel distinguishes between "self-killing" and "suicide," challenging traditional views of early modern attitudes toward death. Analyzing works from notable writers like Shakespeare and Milton, he reveals a spectrum of interpretations that frame death as a heroic gift or political act, while also touching on themes of schadenfreude and deep emotional connections.