Published: 12/6/2019 9:37:26 PM
Modified: 12/6/2019 9:37:13 PM
WINCHENDON — The Beals Memorial Library will host its monthly DOC & TALK documentary film and discussion series, with a screening of the movie, “Phil Ochs: There But for Fortune,” on Thursday, Dec. 12 at 6 p.m. There will also be a special performance by musician Brian Dickens accompanying the film screening.
The documentary centers on the life of the conflicted, talented folk musician, Ochs, who made his mark as a protest singer during the 1960s counterculture movement. Inspired by other great musicians of the era, Ochs wrote topical songs about the issues of the day, including the Vietnam war, civil rights, and labor struggles, and he lived a life of social and political activism through both his songs and his actions. The arch of Ochs’ life paralleled that of the times, from his youthful idealism to rage to pessimism, and the anger, satire, and righteous indignation that drove his music eventually drove him deep into despair.
In this brilliantly constructed film, interviews and performance footage of Ochs is highlighted by the ruminations of Joan Baez, Tom Hayden, Pete Seeger, Sean Penn, Peter Yarrow, Christopher Hitchens, and many others.
The Beals Memorial Library is located at 50 Pleasant St. Call the library at 978-297-0300 for more information.