The Hogan Mystique

This beautifully photographed, coffee table sized book is a must-have for Hogan fans, or anyone who appreciates golf's innocent golden age, before television. We will not soon again see the likes of Mr. Hogan, nor photographs in black and white with this much artistic expression. Martin Davis has done a masterful job of bringing Jules Alexander's photographs to the world. I was privileged to speak to Mr. Alexander a few years ago when ordering one of his prints. He answers his own telephone, and is a delight to speak with, a living legend and rare connection to a true golden age.

Whether you find this book worth the money will depend on whether you think Ben Hogan was the God of Golf (or at least one member of the Trinity). It is a large-format book, and the quality of the photographs (all black-and white) is excellent. I believe they were all taken on the same day, when Hogan allowed Jules Alexander to accompany him. They pretty much just show Hogan at work on the course, and they do capture who he was. The accompanying comments and essays are interesting, but the photographs are the stars of the book. Just make sure you realize that you are getting a series of photographs taken on one day -- this isn't a retrospective of Hogan's career, and there are no swing sequences or anything like that. If you are a Hogan worshipper, however, this book is a must.

This book is appropriately titled. The photos are truly classic and do a wonderful job of portraying the on-course Hogan, particularly his steely focus and gorgeous swing. The accompanying text is solid. I most enjoyed Ken Venturi's comments which accompanied the photos, as well as Dan Jenkin's recounting of the man behind the mystique. I was somewhat disappointed that the photos are all from the late 50s, mostly from the same tournament. Yet, this is only a minor issue. Every true Hogan fan should add this work to his or her collection.