The Artistic Inspiration of Paul Krugman

What is it with Paul Krugman, anyway? The Nobel economist with the dour outlook is becoming the most unlikely of pop icons. First, there was, “Hey Paul Krugman,” a ditty praising his virtues, especially compared with those of Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, that flew around the blogosophere. Now, via Calculated Risk, comes “The Krugman Blues,” from Loudon Wainwright III.

A sampling of the lyrics:

When Paul goes on The NewsHour,
To talk to old Jim Lehrer
He looks so sad and crestfallen
It’s more than I can bear

I guess Krugman can add “inspirational source for artists” to his list of accomplishments. How many other economists have been the subject of songs and music videos? It seems that Krugman’s consistently negative outlook for the economy — a recent New York Times column entitled “That ’30s Show” warned President Obama that he needs a bigger stimulus plan “or you’ll be facing your own personal 1937″  — strikes a chord with artists. And their audiences.

Some economists can look for all the green shoots they want. People don’t have to buy it. Krugman’s more pessimistic views are the ones catching the imagination.