It’s hard to argue the best of anything — records, songs, cheeseburgers, episodes of Full House — but few will argue with Dr. Gavin Hopps, who claims that Morrissey, yes the one and only Moz, is thee greatest lyricist in British Pop history. He backs this argument in his recent book, Morrissey: The Pageant of His Bleeding Heart, and even goes so far as to liken the former Smiths frontman to literary figureheads like Oscar Wilde (Moz wins here, folks) and Philip Larkin.

Hopps’ book focuses on the singer’s approaches to subjects like love and alienation. Dr. Hopps, who has previously scribed a number of papers on pop music and poetry, also draws parallels between Morrissey’s lyrics and several comedy legends.

- Spinner

Of course, Hopps isn’t alone. Behind him are millions of depressed fans, all who were (or still are) between the ages of 18-25, and spent countless nights ruining white pillowcases with black tears. There’s little to argue with the man’s rich, lush lyrical genius. Have you heard “What Difference Does It Make?” recently? It still holds up… and still pierces the heart (again and again and again).

So, if you agree with him, pick up the book. If you happen to see Moz walking around (highly unlikely), be sure to congratulate him — preferably in a way that doesn’t involve throwing a beverage at him.