New Books Network Jane Eisner, "Carole King: She Made the Earth Move" (Yale UP, 2025)
Dec 21, 2025
Jane Eisner, a seasoned journalist and author, dives into her new biography, focusing on musical icon Carole King. She shares her early fandom and the pivotal role of Tapestry in her connection to King's artistry. Eisner explores King's Jewish identity, the influences from her upbringing at Lake Wabika, and the evolution of her songwriting. She reflects on the collaborative spirit of the Brill Building era and the transformative 1970s music scene. With insights into King's lyrical depth and personal drive, this conversation resonates with music lovers.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Childhood Ties At Lake Wabika
- Jane Eisner describes a personal connection to Carole King's family through a lakeside community where her aunt rented a house.
- That connection led Jane to attend King's 1973 Central Park concert and investigate omitted childhood details in King's memoirs.
Secular Jewish Upbringing Shaped Her Voice
- Eisner argues Carole King's upbringing in Jewish Brooklyn and at Lake Wabika created a secular, culturally Jewish identity rather than religious observance.
- That secular Yiddishkeit provided communal values and shaped King's sensibility without overt religious themes in her songs.
Songs Open To Spiritual Readings
- Eisner suggests King's songs can be read as spiritual expressions, not only personal love songs, citing gospel cadences and songs that felt 'from someplace else.'
- She emphasizes multiple valid interpretations: romantic, spiritual, or divine influence in works like "You've Got a Friend."