As I write this, today’s date is February 4, 2022. So, that means it has been exactly 39 years since Karen Carpenter died. And that might not mean anything to younger readers and listeners. But she was considered one of the best female vocalists around, in her day.
The news reports said Karen Carpenter died of a heart attack.
They also called it “cardiac arrest.” But the coroner’s report listed the cause of death as “imbalances associated with anorexia nervosa.” I found some info on a Johns-Hopkins website that said this about anorexia nervosa.
“This disorder makes you obsess about your weight and food. If you have this problem, you may have a warped body image. You may see yourself as fat even though you have a very low body weight. With anorexia, you may use unusual eating habits to cope with stress, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Limiting food may give you a sense of control over your life.”
It’s sadly ironic how Karen Carpenter died of something like that. Because she secretly dealt with it as she sang…
“I’m on the top of the world lookin’ down on creation
And the only explanation I can find
Is the love that I’ve found ever since you’ve been around.
Your love’s put me at the top of the world.”
I never bought any of The Carpenters records.
But I thoroughly enjoyed Karen’s voice. Because it was smooth. Yeah, that’s not hip or cool, by pop music standards. But it’s what sets a true vocalist apart from mere stylists.
And all that being said, I have to also mention that I couldn’t find any info about Karen’s faith. So, my guess is, she placed her faith in, well…her. At least that’s where the evidence points. Because an obsession over your looks and your weight that leads to a “disorder” like anorexia nervosa is, by definition, selfish.
I hope I’m wrong. Because it would be cool if Karen has a chance to sing with me in Heaven one day. So, I hope February 4, 1983 wasn’t the day she said “Goodbye to Love” for the last time.
Stay tuned,
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